Reading aim to sign TP Mazembe defender Stoppila Sunzu after the African Cup of Nations.
The Zambia international had trials at the Madejski stadium last week.
Director of football Nick Hammond told Reading's website: "We had a very good week with him here, we had been trying to bring him across since the summer and this was the first opportunity we had. He was here as a young boy a few years ago so it was great to see him again.
"We're very grateful to his club TP Mazembe for allowing him to train with us, they have been a pleasure to deal with throughout the entire process. Of course the same also goes for the Zambian FA who were also very gracious in allowing him to train with us so close to the start of the Cup of Nations.
"Now of course his focus will be fully on the tournament and doing well for his country, so we will continue to monitor his performances and will continue our dialogue with TP Mazembe."