3 Josh Laurent replacements Paul Ince should be considering ASAP for Reading FC

Reading have had a tumultuous last campaign and it could be about to get even worse for the Royals, with Stoke City set to snap up Josh Laurent from the club this transfer window.

The Potters are seemingly closing in on a deal for the player during the offseason – and as one of Reading’s better players last season in the Championship, it will be a huge blow to see him walk out of the exit door this summer.

The 27-year-old was a mainstay in their side last season, making 41 appearances in the league and bagging two goals with four assists. Now, it looks like Stoke will benefit from his services next season, leaving the Royals needing to scramble and find a replacement.

With that in mind then – and considering the ongoing financial issues with the club – here are three cheap options for the club to potentially sign as a replacement.

Korey Smith

Smith has been a Championship mainstay for quite some time and has been a frequent starter for Swansea over the last two years despite the fact he has now been released from his contract.

The 31-year-old managed 35 league games last time out with three assists and considering how much knowhow he has of the second division, he could be a solid addition for the Royals in the centre of the field.

Reading will not want to be dragged into another relegation battle and having someone like Smith in the middle – who has played in nearly 250 games in the Championship – could help lead them further up the table next time out.

Considering he is also available for nothing, it looks like he could be a nice replacement for Laurent, with the only potential negative being his age in comparison to the outgoing player.

Romal Palmer

The midfielder could be a much better signing when it comes to age