Reading youngster Mathieu Manset has joined Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenhua on loan.

The 22-year old French forward has signed a deal which will see him play in the Chinese Super League until June 30.

Royals boss Brian McDermott sees it as a good chance for Manset to get some regular game time whilst the former Hereford United man is looking forward to playing alongside ex-Chelsea star Nicolas Anelka who signed for the club in December.

"I don't necessarily want him to go, but he was adamant he wants to play games and I understand that," McDermott told the club's official website.

"He'll come back ready for pre-season. I've played in Hong Kong and it was a massive club in Asia, it'll be different for him, but also a good experience."

Manset added: "I'm excited to be going to a new country.

"I think I'll learn a lot with Nicolas Anelka. He's a France international. He's played for Chelsea and when I come back I'll be ready to play here and score goals."

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