Yakou Meite Speaks Out On Move To Reading FC

Coming completely out of the blue last Friday, Reading were boosted by the arrival of Yakou Meite from Paris Saint Germain. Impressively, the Royals had managed to beat off competition from several Premier League sides for the signature of the 20 year-old, a promising attacking talent.

At such a tender age, this is a big career move for the youngster. Meite recently spoke to Goal.com about his decision.

On why he chose to move to Reading

"Negotiations happened quickly considering there were other clubs who were willing to offer me a contract. Reading wasted no time and that made the difference.

I have not really had guarantees [of playing time], but I felt that the coach and sports director really wanted me. From there, I think I have a chance to play this season."

...and why he chose Reading over a potential move to Serie A

"England rather than Serie A because I think my game is more suited to England. Now that I've set foot here, I'll soon see whether I was wrong or not."

On why he wanted to leave PSG in the first place

"At my age money is not the most important thing... the most important thing is to play to the maximum and I do not know if I would have had the chance to get playing time as I can in Reading.

Now it is not certain that I will play here, I have to work to earn my place."

The article also notes that PSG offered Meite a contract worth €3000 per month.

On his first few days at the club

"The team welcomed me despite the language barrier, I'm happy. I am leaving a great club with great facilities but in Reading, there are also great facilities, so everything is going well for me at the moment."

His aim this season is...

"To have a very good season of course, gain experience and score as many goals as possible for my new club."

His message to the Reading fans

"The fans can count on me! I'll give my all in every game I start or not. I hope that we will do great things together."

***

Although Meite is certainly one of the more exciting talents we've seen arrive at the Madejski Stadium in recent seasons, it'd be foolish to expect too much of him this season.

At just 20 years of age, he's got plenty to learn about the game. Added to that, he doesn't even speak any English (although Messrs Mendes and Kermorgant should help with the transition).

Nonetheless, the fact that Reading can pinch someone like Meite from Paris Saint Germain, whilst reportedly fighting off the likes of Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and others, is encouraging.

Do you think Yakou Meite will have an impact this season? Leave us a comment below, or tweet us @TheTilehurstEnd

The original article, which you can find here, was translated with a mixture of Google Translate and Bucks' A-Level French.