Leeds have been linked with the Manchester United striker on loan, but Reading may have the advantage.
Leeds United may have to look elsewhere for a striker in January after Jaap Stam confirmed to The Reading Chronicle that he is interested in signing James Wilson.
The Sun reported that 21-year-old Wilson is looking to leave Manchester United on loan when the transfer window reopens in order to seek further first-team opportunities.
While Leeds, steeped in footballing history and 14 places above Reading in the Championship table, may be the more attractive destination, Stam’s United connection could give Reading the edge in the battle for Wilson’s signature.
The Dutchman told The Reading Chronicle that he discussed a move for Wilson in the summer and is already making plans to strengthen his squad after the New Year.
“I know about it and we already spoke about him in June. But at the moment there is nothing in that,” he is quoted by The Reading Chronicle as saying.
“I’m not going to name names, but we are looking at players. We’re looking at the team, how we are set up and asking whether we need to do anything and bring in players in certain areas.”
Stam made 125 appearances for the Red Devils between 1998 and 2001, helping them to the Premier League title in each of his three seasons and the famous treble in 1999.
Leeds’ current strike force of Pierre-Michel Lasogga and Samuel Saiz have managed only five Championship goals between them so far this season.
Wilson would provide some much-needed firepower, but Leeds’ chances don’t look good if Stam’s Reading are also in the hunt.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
