Stoke City have joined Bristol City in the race for out-of-contract Reading midfielder Andy Rinomhota, according to Bristol Live. 

The Royals confirmed last month that Rinomhota had been offered a new contract with discussions ongoing but he does have other options in the Championship should he opt to leave the Berkshire club.

The Robins were first linked with the 25-year-old in May, with Nigel Pearson said to be keen to bolster his midfield options, but it seems they now face competition from Stoke.

That's according to Bristol Live, who have reported that the Potters have identified Rinomhota as a summer target.

The report claims that the midfielder is yet to respond to Reading's contract offer but that he is likely to make a decision over his future in the next two weeks, with the start of pre-season drawing closer.

The Robins are understood to not yet have made a formal offer to Rinomhota – though you feel that could change soon with Championship interest said to be growing.

The Verdict

It was only a matter of time before another second tier club showed an interest in the 25-year-old, who represents a strong addition at this level on a free transfer.

A move to either Stoke or City would represent a step up for Rinomhota given Reading were battling relegation last season and the interested pair have loftier ambitions in 2022/23.

It seems his future could be decided in the next fortnight, which is a positive for all involved as it will allow him more time to settle and mean the clubs that miss out have the opportunity to find a replacement ahead of the start of the new season.

With Championship interest said to be growing and the Potters now named as a suitor, Pearson and co. may feel it's time for them to step up their pursuit.