Manchester United are one of several Premier League clubs considering a bid for Reading's talented young striker Danny Loader, Sky Sports News understands.
The 20-year-old is out of contract this summer and talks on a new deal have stalled.
The former England youth international, who made his Reading debut for Jaap Stam as a 16-year old, almost left the Madejski Stadium on deadline day last summer, only for a move to Wolves to fall through.
Speaking shortly after his move to Wolves fell through, Loader said: "Everyone knows a Premier League club tried to sign me in the transfer window, but it wasn't to be.
"I'm very ambitious, my dream is to play on the biggest stage and you never know when these opportunities will come around again."
When does the January transfer window open?
As the January transfer window inches ever closer, clubs across the Premier League, Europe and beyond will be identifying potential transfer targets and holding discussions with clubs and agents over future deals.
At this traditionally difficult time to make big moves, the start of the new year looks set to be frantic for a host of top Premier League clubs.
Where can you follow all the latest transfer news?
As well as keeping an eye on Sky Sports News, you can make sure you don't miss a thing with our dedicated Transfer Centre blog.
There will also be the return of the Transfer Talk Podcast and some exciting new features coming your way...