Jake Cooper Departs Reading FC For Millwall

Reading centre half Jake Cooper has finalised a permanent transfer to Championship newboys Millwall. The academy graduate has long been linked with a switch to The Den, having spent time there on loan last season. The 22 year-old has signed a three year deal with The Lions, and the transfer fee will go down as undisclosed.

Despite breaking into the first team under Nigel Adkins, his development has been restricted in the last few seasons by the likes of Paul McShane, Michael Hector and Liam Moore. Last season, he managed only five first team appearances under Jaap Stam, with Cooper never really fitting into the Dutchman’s style of play.

In all, he played a total of 54 times for Reading, scoring four goals.

By joining Millwall, he should get the first team opportunities that he needs to further his career - at a club where he’s valued.

On the other hand, from Reading’s point of view, they’re getting money for a player that likely wouldn’t have played much this season anyway. Also, the likes of Axel Andresson and Rob Dickie could get closer to first team action.

This transfer is the latest in a summer clear-out that already included: Stuart Moore, Terence Vancooten, Sean Long, Dominic Hyam, Zak Jules, Tarique Fosu, Aaron Kuhl, Craig Tanner, Jack Stacey, Niall Keown, Dominic Samuel and Paolo Hurtado.

We wish Jake the very best for the future, and sincerely ask him not to score against us - because former players always score against Reading.