Reading have been linked with a move for former Leeds winger Billy Whitehouse, now plying his trade with Tadcaster Albion, according to the Reading Chronicle.

Whitehouse came through the ranks at Doncaster Rovers, but was soon snapped up by Leeds and given a spot in their development squad.

He made his full debut for the Whites as they lost to Sutton in the FA Cup, following a loan spell with Guiseley in the National League.

He was released in the summer of 2017 and after a short spell out of the game he signed for Tadcaster Albion.

The 22-year-old has been in terrific form for the Brewers this season, bagging five goals and adding a whopping ten assists in just 18 appearances in the Evo-stick East.

That form has seen him become hot property once again, with the Royals currently one of the sides hoping to give him a second chance at the Football League.

He was highly rated at Leeds for a short while, with Leeds development coach Jason Blunt speaking highly of him prior to his Guiseley loan; "Billy creates chances and his work ethic is good. He is an example for the younger lads in the group. It is not just about technically how good you are, it is about desire, attitude in and around the training ground, manners, the whole package and Billy has it.”

He's also being pursued by Leicester City, with other clubs likely to be linked as scouts flock to drool over his recent performances.

The Verdict

This could be an astute move by Reading. It's clear Whitehouse once had a lot of promise and maybe a spell in the non-league has helped him develop as a player.

Young talent develops in many ways and some times it is taking knocks that sets them on the right path. Whitehouse has been exceptional for Tadcaster and whilst the levels are very different, there's every chance he could be a rough diamond in need of a polish.