Reading are set to allow young striker Sam Smith to leave on loan, according to HITC. 

The 20-year-old has been at the centre of interest from a number of Football League sides and now looks set for a season-long loan switch to Oxford United.

Having joined the Berkshire side in 2016 from Manchester United, Smith scored two goals in 13 appearances last term.

The striker is regarded highly at Reading with the expectation a loan spell away will further improve the player ahead of a return to Reading next term. 

Reports suggest that the Royals are close to sealing a loan move for Brighton striker Sam Baldock.

Securing that signing would allow Smith to confirm his move to the League One side as he looks for regular first-team football.

The Verdict

The young Reading striker going out on loan is a good call by Paul Clement.

Thirteen appearances during a debut season at Reading is pretty good going for a 20-year-old.

A loan move will allow him to play regularly in the hope he improves and is able to compete for a first-team spot at the Madejski next season.

With Smith joining Oxford, and the need to replace him greater, signing Sam Baldock is a fantastic compromise for Clement and Reading.

They are getting an experienced Championship player with a future star heading out on a temporary basis to further learn his trade.

It is a win-win situation.