Howard completes Royals move

Howard: Three-year deal

Reading have sealed the signing of Brian Howard from Sheffield United for an undisclosed fee.

James Harper joined the Blades on loan earlier this week after speculation over a swap deal involving the two players.

Midfielder Howard has now completed his permanent switch to the Madejski Stadium following a delay while the paperwork was processed.

He arrives on a three-year deal and manager Brendan Rodgers is delighted to have secured his services.

"Brian is a big player at this level. He is a great reference point for the team, he can create and score goals," said Rodgers.

"I've admired him from afar and coming to Reading is the perfect fit for him and his style of play."

Howard added: "I'm really happy to sign and now I just can't wait to play. Brendan sold the club to me, his idea of football is the way I want to play the game.

"Hopefully I can bring some goals, my assist and goal ratio has been decent in the past so hopefully I can repeat that here and bring something for the crowd to enjoy."