By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: <a href= http://bit.ly/lsiOza' class='instorylink'>@skysportspeteo</a>
Friday 11 May 2012 09:04, UK
Image:Garath McCleary: Close to signing for Premier League new boys Reading
Sky Sports understands Reading are closing in on the signing of Nottingham Forest winger Garath McCleary.
McDermott to win race for flying Forest winger
Sky Sports understands Reading are closing in on the signing of Nottingham Forest winger Garath McCleary.
McCleary is out of contract at Forest this summer and has yet to sign a new deal at the City Ground.
Forest are reluctant to lose McCleary, but know they face a major battle to tie him down to a new deal with a number of clubs waiting in the wings to sign the exciting wide player.
The 24-year-old has been one of Forest's stand-out performers this season, netting nine goals in 21 appearances.
McCleary caught the attention of a number of clubs following his stunning four-goal haul in Forest's 7-3 win over Leeds in March.
West Brom and Celtic have expressed an interest in securing the flying winger, but Reading have stolen a march on their rivals as they look to lure him to the Madejski Stadium.
Reading boss Brian McDermott is keen to bolster his attacking options and he is ready to make McCleary his first signing of the summer as he prepares for life back in the Premier League.
