Sky Bet League One side Reading FC have reportedly stepped up their interest in Colchester United’s standout winger Kyreece Lisbie in attempt to hijack deal.

Reading are in contention with Oxford United to secure the signing of highly-rated winger Kyreece Lisbie from League Two Colchester, according to local reports.
The Royals are evaluating attacking targets to boost their options, with Lisbie emerging as a priority for both clubs.
Reading have been active in recruiting this month and see pace and width as key areas to improve, after missing out on Luis Garcia earlier in the window.
Lisbie has made a name for himself in League Two with 15 goal contributions in 19 starts so far.
While the rumours haven’t been officially confirmed by Reading or Oxford, both sides are looking to strenghten their squads.
Reading in particular, would see this as a boost to their promotion chances.
The Royals only sit 8 points off the promotion spots, holding 2 games in hand over 6th placed Huddersfield Town.
The link suggests Reading are ready to compete, rather than stand down.
Reading’s recruitment this January has emphasised positional balance and squad flexibility.
The Royals have signed striker Will Keane from Preston North End and defender Ryan Nambe from Derby County.
However, attacking depth remains a focus as they look to climb the League One table.
Bringing in a winger would give manager Leam Richardson more variety to his attack against compact, deeper defences — something Reading have sometimes struggled with.
Oxford United have maintained an interest in creating a more dynamic front line. Historically, they have moved quickly for targets before deadlines.
Their involvement here isn’t merely speculative. United have a track record of identifying and signing aggressive wide attackers in past windows.
As this unfolds, Reading’s willingness to push shows they are not reacting. They are actively shaping their January strategy around this kind of profile.
If Reading can get ahead of Oxford in negotiations, it would cap off a positive January!