Reading Football Club have announced that academy forward Jack Nolan has signed his first ever professional contract at the Madejski Stadium.

In a statement on the Reading website, the Royals announced that Nolan, who turned 17 today, has put pen to paper on a professional deal.

The young attacker made appearances for the Reading Under-18’s and Under-21’s this season, as well as receiving call ups for the England youth set ups, making his debut for their Under-17 side last August.

Nolan signed for Reading at the age of 15, and has been part of the Royals youth set up since, helping Scott Marshall’s Under-23 side reach the play-offs last season.

The forward’s deal will allow Nolan to progress through Reading’s category one academy process, and gain valuable experience with Paul Clement’s first team.

Reading managed to narrowly avoided relegation last season on the final day, so will be hoping to improve and bolster their squad with transfers, as well as academy graduates.

The Verdict

Reading are in desperate need of new talent at the Madejski Stadium going into next season if they are to improve on last season.

Paul Clement has a tough task on his hands, but the involvement of young academy players can only help them and the team in the long run.

Jack Nolan has played well above his age levels for the Royals already to date, and is certainly one for the future.