Boro table bid for Harper

Reading midfielder James Harper could be on his way out of the club after Middlesbrough tabled a £3.5million bid yesterday.

Boro boss Gareth Southgate is reported to be eager to seal the services of the 28-year-old and beat at Bolton to his capture.

Harper is said keen to be keen to avoid dropping into the Championship, and Boro's offer is expected to be accepted.

One stumbling block could be the fee as Reading will have to pay 30 per cent of his transfer fee to former club Arsenal.

Another Reading player who could be on his way is Nicky Shorey. Pompey boss Harry Redknapp is launching a £2.5million swoop.