On Wednesday night, it was reported by ESPN journalist Matteo Bonetti that Serie A side Atalanta have the same wage budget as Reading.

It is an interesting comparison given the Italian side are competing in the Champions League and the Royals are mid-table in the Championship.

The link draws one key question for Reading, should they hope for more from what they have available to them?

We take a look at the discussion in today's FLW Six Pointer...

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What are Reading's finances like?

"In truth, since they got relegated from the Premier League back in 2013, there has always been constant murmurs about the financial state of the club.

"Players such as Chris Gunter and Garath McCleary are still at Reading, and could still be on some of the higher wages despite not being key players in the team."

Have they spent well?

"The clear answer to that would have to be no. If you look at signings in recent seasons, players like Sone Aluko have come in for over £6 million (transfermrkt) and have not added anything to the side.

"Even this season, George Puscas and Lucas Joao were brought in to boost their forward line but have scored just 13 league goals between them."

Are the owners continuing to invest?

"Yes, the owners have invested a huge amount into the club and seem to do so every summer. Dai Yongge and Dai Li are at the forefront of most decisions and are often seen around the Madejski Stadium.

"The owners have also spent £50 million on a new training ground for the club that which has massively boosted facilities."

Should they be doing better in the league for what they spend on wages?

"Yes, they should be at least competing in the top half of the Championship.

"Bowen's men have been very inconsistent this season but will likely feel their squad is capable of finishing higher than mid-table.

"However, the reason they're not could be down to a variety of factors, including the manager, the players, the owners and the other staff at the club.

"They've improved significantly under Mark Bowen, and next season they could well challenge in the right half of the table."

Will they be successful?

"Things are well set up for the Royals. They now have the facilities, the money and no troubles with financial fair play as their three-year cycle comes to an end. All the signs point towards a successful future.

"Will they? It's a tough ask and it's hard to define success. They have some great players coming through the academy and if they mix them with the right signings then the next few years could be very positive in Berkshire."

Is it fair to compare them to Atalanta?

"No, not realistically. There's a reason why Championship sides now offer big wages, and it's because in truth you are just one good season away from playing in the biggest league in the world.

"Credit where credit is due to Atalanta, they've done an excellent job to be where they are.

"Reading fans have a reason to be frustrated by this link, however, comparing the finances of different clubs in different leagues is somewhat problematic."