Harper has Premier ambition

Midfielder disappointed to drop put of top flight

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 15th June 2008

James Harper goal Reading v Liverpool

Harper: Looking upwards

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James Harper has admitted that he would welcome a move to a Premier League club.

The midfielder suffered relegation from the top flight last season with Reading, but after two years mixing it among English football's elite he is desperate to remain in the big time.

The former Arsenal trainee is believed to be attracting interest from Bolton, West Ham, Middlesbrough and Fulham, so may yet get his wish.

Harper revealed that he would be prepared to stay with the Royals should nothing materialise this summer, but it is thought that a bid of around £3million would be enough to prise him away from Madejski Stadium.

"I won't pretend I don't want to be in the Premier League," said Harper.

"But I'm more than happy to stay here for next season.

"I don't want to be in the Championship but Reading are, so I am prepared to come back for pre-season, graft and fight for the shirt and that's the way it should be."