Sonko and Brooker join Royals

Reading have swooped to sign Brentford central defender Ibrahima Sonko and Leicester forward Paul Brooker.

Brooker spent time on loan at Reading last season and has now returned on a permanent basis, after agreeing a two-year deal.

The 22-year-old Sonko has agreed a two-year contract at The Madejski Stadium.

"Sonko has earned this move to a club from a higher division by playing superbly to help us avoid relegation last season," said Bees boss Martin Allen.

"He also impressed as the Senegal Under-23 captain and earned a call up into the senior Senegal squad.

"Now I am trying to sign another centre half - and a centre forward."

Allen confirmed he has been in contact with people in the Far East and Norway, which may help the club bring in new players.

"I have made a good contact there with a couple of agents and it could lead to a sponsorship deal as well as a player joining us. Hopefully, we will also be able to look at a couple of Norwegians," he added.

Meanwhile, Brentford have confirmed that they have offered a trial to former Portsmouth star Deon Burton.