Reading join Charlton and Stockport in the race for the Sheffield Wednesday winger

Reading are in the race for Sheffield Wednesday winger Malik Wilks, according to reports.

Wilks, 25, rose through the ranks at Leeds United but managed just one appearance, proving himself in recent years with the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday.

Scoring once in 18 appearances for the Owls last season, the pacey forward has failed to feature in the final months of the campaign and will be keen to earn more minutes next season.

According to Football Inside, Reading join Charlton Athletic and Stockport County in the race to land the winger.

The reports state that the clubs are “exploring the possibility of securing a loan or permanent deal for the Sheffield Wednesday striker”.

Due to transfer embargoes in place, the Royals can only sign free agents or loan players without contributions to the parent club.

While he needs a winger, with Femi Azeez the only wide man in the squad, question marks over any takeover could halt any progress in securing targets for next season.