Reading boss Steve Coppell is said to be lining up a £1m bid for Bristol City midfielder Cole Skuse as a replacement for Steve Sidwell.

Coppell is understood to be an admirer of the 21-year-old midfielder after having him watched on several occasions last season and reports in the West Country suggest he is ready to test City's resolve by making an offer.

Skuse played a key role in helping City win automatic promotion to the Championship last season and still has two years left on his contract at Ashton Gate.

But the midfielder would jump at the chance to play in the Premiership and a move to the Madejski Stadium would see him link up again with ex-City star and good friend Leroy Lita.