QPR and Preston North End dealt transfer boost as Charlton Athletic target 'desperate' for move

QPR and Charlton Athletic have been handed a boost in their pursuit of in-demand Reading defender Amadou Mbengue with the League One club’s chief providing a candid take on contract situations.

The Royals centre-back is also said to be wanted by Preston North End and Watford, with no shortage of Championship interest. Mbengue enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Royals last time out but the Berkshire outfit narrowly missed out on a place in the play-offs and the chance to fight for promotion.

Mbengue made 37 appearances across all competitions for Reading last season and is a product of the Metz academy. He moved to Reading in September 2022 and made 26 Championship appearances for the club before their relegation to League One.

Reading CEO drops QPR and Charlton Athletic transfer hint

The player is out of contract this summer and Reading co-CEO Joe Jacobson has provided an update on contracts at the club. Mbengue has been offered a new deal but is yet to put pen to paper.

Jacobson told the Reading Chronicle: "Everyone who we wanted to stay will stay, within reason. We might not be able to keep everyone because of how well some did but we are trying.

"We would love to keep everyone we have offered contracts to. It might not happen, but that is football. We want to get players in, some really good and exciting players."

As well as his ability on the pitch, Mbengue has received regular praise for his character. The defender watched his team’s match against Stevenage with fans in the stands this season and has become a fan favourite.

Former Reading manager Ruben Selles described the player as a ‘unique’ character when speaking last year. He said: “He’s a player that is very vocal. I think they have been quite consistent that couple. The conditions of Amadou makes him unique. His character, his personality, his way, his past and the way that he fights for his opportunity. The way he came from his country (Senegal) going to France in not the best circumstances.

“We all have him in a big consideration. He’s a unique character and is a player and a person you want in your side. One thing we have in this club is we allow people to express themselves there is no judgement. It’s a joy to see him living because he’s different from the norm. When we win he is the happiest player, when we lose he is the one telling the other ones that we are going to come back stronger.”

Charlton Athletic move for Australian rising star

Mbengue is not the only player being monitored by Charlton Athletic after their promotion to the Championship. Nathan Jones is looking to bring second tier experience into his squad but is also keeping one eye on the future.

Transfer specialist Alan Nixon claims that the Addicks are set to make a move for 17-year-old Australian goalkeeper Sonny Inzalaco. The Perth Red Star man would be one for the future but is said to be ‘desperate’ to make the move to the UK.

The shot-stopper holds a British passport, which could help facilitate the move. Little is known as to the financial agreement of any potential switch.

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