Reading keen to sign Nigerian youngster who featured twice against Manchester City last term

League One campaigners, Reading FC are currently engaged in negotiations to secure the services of FC Copenhagen’s forward, Paul Mukairu, Soccernet.ng reports.

The move comes as Reading seek to bolster their attacking prowess. The team’s head coach, Ruben Selles, faces mounting pressure after witnessing his squad stumble in their initial two League One fixtures this season.

According to Football Insider, Reading are actively pursuing a season-long loan agreement to bring Mukairu on board, as the youngster can operate across various positions within the forward line.

Mukairu has not appeared in any of Copenhagen’s seven games this season. With his contract expiring in December 2025, the forward’s potential move might materialise sooner than expected.

Copenhagen’s decision to exclude Mukairu from their squad to face Sparta Prague in the Champions League qualifier on Tuesday has added fuel to this speculation.

Last Wednesday, the young talent remained on the bench as Copenhagen managed a goalless draw with the Czech team in the first leg of their encounter.

Mukairu’s Journey So Far

Paul Mukairu’s football journey began at the Nigerian FC Hearts Academy.

Subsequently, he moved to Turkish club Antalyaspor in 2019.

The Belgian First Division A welcomed him on loan at Anderlecht for the 2020-21 season, after which he returned to Antalyaspor.

Following a record of eight goals in 53 appearances across various competitions for Antalyaspor, he secured a move to Copenhagen in January 2022 under a three-year contract.

During last season with the Danish club, Mukairu was not in the starting lineup once, rather making ten appearances as a substitute. Among these, he notably featured in two cameo appearances against Manchester City in the Champions League.

Despite his versatility, Mukairu has managed just one assist in 25 appearances for Copenhagen so far.