Charlton's move for Sam Baldock has been jeopardised due to concerns over wage problems, say The Reading Chronicle.

According to the report, the striker - who is currently occupying a "significant salary package" - is not willing to take a pay cut to leave the Madjeski.

The 30-year-old has been told by manager Jose Gomes that he is not in his first-team plans this season.

He is amongst a group of players that have been told the same, yet he is the only one from them to be involved with pre-season.

Charlton have registered an interest for the unwanted striker, according to journalist Anthony Smith.

However, The Reading Chronicle understands that Baldock has said that he will not leave the Royals this summer unless his wages are paid in full - damming words for Charlton considering their well-documented money problems.

Baldock still has two years to go on his contract after signing a big deal with former chief executive Ron Gourlay.

Cash strapped Reading have been able to free some funds, after selling Liam Kelly to their ex-manager Japp Stam, who is currently at the helm of Feyenoord.

Baldock, 30, has struggled to make an impact at the Madejski Stadium since arriving in the summer of 2018 from Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring five goals in 21 appearances in all competitions.

The Verdict

This isn't good for Charlton or Reading, and it brings light to poor decision making in the past from Reading's board.

Baldock is on a big wage, and for two clubs who are struggling with money, it presents a problem which probably means this deal can't get over the line.

Charlton simply won't pay all of his wages, and the only way the deal can get fully done is if he lowers his demands or if Reading end up paying some of the wages, perhaps in a loan deal.

Alternatively, Reading will look for other suitors. However, considering his lack of game time for the club it is hard to see many Championship clubs going after him.

This could be bad news for Reading and prevent them from chasing some of their summer targets.