Will Tiago Ilori finally take his chance?
The forgotten Liverpool defender has struggled to kickstart his career amid several loan moves but will be hopeful that, having signed with Reading, the only way is up.
Ilori signed for the Reds in 2013 for a reported £7 million but registered a forgettable three appearances for the Merseyside outfit, all of which came in the FA Cup last year.
The centre-back had been sent away on numerous occasions to garner some first team experience but saw his loan deal at Aston Villa cut short after failing to play a single minute for the club.
He remained on Liverpool’s books until this week, when Reading manager Jaap Stam decided to sign the Portugal U23 international for a fee of around £3.75 million.
And Manchester United legend Stam was thrilled to sign up such a talented prospect who’s had no luck with his football career thus far.
“Tiago is the type of defender a lot of people like — his technical skill, passing ability, pace, quality and physique. We always want players with those attributes within our squad,” Stam told Reading’s website.
“In this league, with all the games we need to play, you never know what’s going to happen with injuries and suspensions — so it’s also important we have options and the chance to rotate.
“And looking to the future, you need to seize the opportunity when players like Tiago are available, so we’re very happy that he will be joining us at Reading.”
