Reading have had a tentative start to the 2017/18 season, picking up just one point in two games amid an injury crisis.

That point was against Fulham, who had a man sent off within the first minute of the game.

Jaap Stam's side is heavily depleted due to numerous injuries and the Dutchman will be scouring the transfer market in search of reinforcements all over the pitch.

Last week he brought in Leandro Bacuna who is versatile enough to cover a number of positions in midfield or defence.

However, the Royals still need a striker - someone who can score the goals to fire them up the league table and have them competing for promotion like they were last term.

With the likes of Yann Kermorgant and Jon Dadi Bodvarsson on the sidelines, Stam will be seeking a short-term solution to the striker crisis.

Reading should look at signing Julien Ngoy on loan from Stoke City.

Ngoy is a strong and pacey centre forward who is very highly regarded by Stoke.

However, the Belgium under-21 international would really benefit from a spell on loan in the Championship so that he can develop his game in a competitive environment.

Ngoy has six senior appearances to his name, including five in the Premier League, but all of them have been from the substitutes' bench.

Monaco have been sniffing around the 19-year-old and they could see him as a direct replacement for Kylian Mbappe if he leaves, which is high praise for Julien Ngoy.

Standing at 6ft 2in, Ngoy is a real presence up top and a loan move to Reading would suit all parties.

Reading fans - Would you like to sign Ngoy on loan? Let us know below...