Reading are lining up a move to secure Newcastle United midfielder Jeff Hendrick.

According to the Daily Mail, the Royals are hoping to secure the signing of the Ireland international.

Hendrick spent the second half of the previous season on loan with Championship rivals QPR, where he featured 10 times for Mark Warburton’s side.

He was unable to establish himself as a consistent starter with the London club, with his role with the Magpies having also diminished greatly under Eddie Howe.

A fresh start now looks necessary, with the 30-year old currently training in the U23s side alongside Ciaran Clark and Dwight Gayle.

Newcastle are set to take to Austria as part of their pre-season preparations, but it is unlikely that Hendrick will be taking part as the Premier League club looks to sort out his future.

Reading are looking to strengthen their side under Paul Ince following their difficult campaign just gone.

A 21st place finish saw the team narrowly escape relegation despite receiving a six point deduction penalty.

Avoiding another relegation scrap will be the aim as the club looks to find its footing amid financial difficulties in recent years.

The Verdict

Hendrick would be a solid short-term signing for Reading to make in order to bridge the gap for a year or two.

The midfielder is not quite at his best level anymore, but still has plenty to offer to a struggling second division side.

Wage demands would be a concern, as he is likely to seek a high salary which Reading should absolutely look to avoid.

But if a reasonable deal can be agreed with Newcastle, then this could be a really smart signing for Ince’s side.