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A month after handing in a transfer request, Liam Moore has signed a new contract at Reading that *could* keep him Berkshire until 2023.
The 25-year-old only signed an improved four year deal last summer, but after speculation linking him to Brighton & Hove Albion this summer, the club have looked to tie him down*, presumably on a high wages and certain release clauses.
Moore’s importance to the side is showed by the fact that he has clocked up 101 appearances in the blue and white hoops in just two years after he signed from Leicester City in 2016. He currently has four goals from defence and won the club’s Player of the Season award in 2017/18.
Paul Clement said on his centre-back’s new deal:
“I’m very pleased that Liam has decided to commit to a new long-term contract at Reading. Over the summer there was a lot of speculation and uncertainty surrounding his future at the club and we are all delighted that he has agreed this new deal. Liam is an integral part of moving this club forward and I’m looking forward to us working together to achieve our objective.”
Ron Gourlay added:
“Securing the long-term services of our key first team players has always been a priority for our owners and we have made a clear statement that this club’s intentions are not to sell our best players. Ever since arriving at Reading Football Club, Liam has proven himself to be one of the best, playing a prominent part in our first team achievements. This contract means he will now have an important role to play as part of this club’s aspirations for the future.”
Whilst in reality it is unlikely that Moore will stay until 2023 unless Reading get promoted (the least likely thing that will happen right now), this new contract should ensure if and when he does depart, the club will get the possible fee for him. He is certainly the club’s most valuable asset, Dai Yongge and Dai Xiu Li seemingly said as much in their meeting with Moore earlier this month, so it’s a good bit of business to get him back on board.
*not literally (we hope)