Royals eye Hornets ace

Sky Sports understands Reading are eyeing up a move for highly-rated Watford defender Adrian Mariappa.

Mariappa attracting interest

Sky Sports understands Reading are eyeing up a move for highly-rated Watford defender Adrian Mariappa. Premier League new boys Reading are keen to bolster their squad ahead of next season and they are thought to have made enquiries about Mariappa. Mariappa is regarded as one of the best defensive talents outside the Premier League after impressing at Watford over the last couple of years. Newcastle and Wigan both tried to sign the 25-year-old during the January transfer window, but Watford managed to keep hold of the stopper. Reading Brian McDermott is believed to be a fan of Mariappa and sees him as a key addition to his defence as they prepare for life back in the top flight. Watford are loath to lose Mariappa, but they would find it difficult to resist a sizeable offer for the defender who has come through the ranks at Vicarage Road.