Here, we examine two players who might depart Reading alongside Femi Azeez when the season concludes.
Last season, the Royals faced relegation to the third tier for the first time in over two decades, succumbing to financial troubles and subsequent point deductions.
Unfortunately, the challenges persist for Reading supporters, as the club has endured further point deductions on three separate occasions this season, amounting to a total of six points deducted so far.
These financial constraints have also hampered Reading’s activity in the summer transfer market, restricting them to acquiring players through free transfers and loans.
| Reading FC: 2023/24 Summer Signings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Player Name | Signed From | Loan/Permanent |
| Harlee Dean | Birmingham City | Permanent |
| Sam Smith | Cambridge United | Permanent |
| Lewis Wing | Wycombe Wanderers | Permanent |
| Clinton Mola | VfB Stuttgart | Permanent |
| Harvey Knibbs | Cambridge United | Permanent |
| David Button | West Brom | Permanent |
| Tivonge Rushesha | Swansea City | Permanent |
| Tyler Bindon | LAFC Academy | Permanent |
| Charlie Savage | Man United | Permanent |
| Ben Elliott | Chelsea | Permanent |
| Paul Mukairu | FC Copenhagen | Loan |
| Dom Ballard | Southampton | Loan |
| Joel Pereira | Free Agent | Permanent |
This has placed them squarely in the midst of another relegation struggle, yet Ruben Selles’ squad has been achieving results, sparking hope that they can stave off demotion despite the setbacks of point deductions.
Azeez has emerged as a pivotal figure in their recent string of successes, contributing both goals and assists for his teammates. However, Reading faces a significant concern as his contract is set to expire in the summer, potentially allowing him to depart on a free transfer.
Yet, who else might follow suit?
Here, we explore two additional players who could depart the Select Car Leasing Stadium alongside Femi Azeez when the season concludes.
1. Jeriel Dorsett
Jeriel Dorsett is among the cohort of players who have flourished on the first team this season, showcasing commendable performance.
The 21-year-old product of the Royals’ academy has experienced two loan spells away from the club. His initial stint was during the 21/22 campaign with Rochdale, where he amassed 37 appearances in League Two. Subsequently, he spent the last season on loan at Kilmarnock, although his playing time in the Scottish Premiership was limited to just 11 appearances.
Returning to Reading, Dorsett has secured a regular spot in the first team. While typically a centre-back, he has adapted to the left-back position this season. Despite the positional adjustment, he has excelled, using his physical attributes to trouble opposing right-wingers.
With his contract set to expire in the summer, mirroring Azeez’s situation, the club faces the risk of losing him on a free transfer at the end of the season. Given his breakthrough this term, there is no shortage of potential suitors for Dorsett’s services.
2. Clinton Mola
Clinton Mola is another player potentially poised to depart at the end of the season without a transfer fee.
The 22-year-old midfielder arrived at the Royals on deadline day during the summer transfer window, following the early termination of his contract with German outfit Stuttgart.
Mola’s previous loan spell at Blackburn Rovers in the Championship last season yielded limited success, with just four league appearances to his name.
Though his performances at Reading haven’t been outstanding, Mola has shown gradual improvement over the course of the season. With the ability to play across various defensive positions, including left-back, centre-back, and defensive midfield, he offers versatility—a trait that has proven beneficial for Selles’ squad.
However, given his contract’s expiration in the summer and the uncertain future at Reading, Mola emerges as another likely candidate to seek opportunities elsewhere.
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