Liverpool to make move for Reading striker

Liverpool are lining up a shock summer move for Reading striker Shane Long.

The Republic of Ireland international was named Reading's Player of the Season after scoring 21 Championship goals this season, helping Brian McDermott's side into the play-offs.

Reading take on Cardiff tomorrow in the first leg of their play-off semi-final and Long is expected to start up front.

But it is understood that Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the tie and could be ready to launch a cut-price bid for Long should the Royals fail in their promotion bid.

The 24-year-old, who only has a year left on his Reading contract, is desperate to try his hand in the Premier League and could be available for around £5m this summer.

Despite the January signings of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez, Liverpool are expected to further strengthen their frontline with question marks still hanging over back-up forward David Ngog - and Long has emerged as a priority target given his value for money.

Newcastle have also been tracking Long, who has scored 52 goals in just 114 appearances since arriving from Cork City in 2005, and could be ready to firm up their interest with an offer of their own.

Source: TalkSport

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