Pundit thinks Reading FC issues could force sale of Charlie Savage to Derby County | OneFootball

Pundit Carlton Palmer thinks that a potential transfer offer for Reading's Charlie Savage could convince the League One club to part with one of their players in January.

Savage has drawn interest from Derby County recently, with the Rams hoping the young midfielder can help them secure promotion back in the Championship for next season. They currently sit 4th in League One, while Savage's club Reading remain just outside the relegation zone.

An initial inquiry about signing the young Welshman was "knocked back", following some good performances after joining the club from Manchester United in the summer.

The left-footed defensive midfielder has played in all-but two matches for the Royals this season, picking up two goals and one assists in the first half of the campaign. His performances were enough to earn him his debut for Wales in October, when he started in a 4-0 win against Gibraltar.

Savage is undoubtedly an important player for Reading, but issues outside of football could dictate whether or not he moves to Derby in the January transfer window.

Palmer: Financial issues could force Reading to sell Charlie Savage

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Palmer said that the off-field issues at Reading could force the club's hand into selling young star Savage.

Multiple points deductions and financial issues have threatened the club's livelihood in recent seasons, although he notes that the club need to find a new buyer in the near future, so retaining their best players to secure a spot in League One is vital to that.

"Derby County have had an initial approach for Reading and Wales International midfielder Charlie Savage knocked back.

"20-year-old Savage joined the Royals in the summer on a permanent deal from Manchester United, for who he made 1 first team appearance.

"Savage is enjoying a good season for Reading, who have had several points deductions, sit just outside the relegation position.

Derby currently sit 4th place in League One and are keen to ring in reinforcements for the second half of the season to try and secure an automatic promotion place.

"They see 20-year-old Charlie as part of their forward plan. Derby will go back again to test Reading's resolve.

"Reading are in a difficult position. On one hand, the off-field uncertainty and financial issues they face might dictate that they should sell, but on the other hand to attract a buyer, they need to retain their league one status, and that means keeping their better players.

Charlie Savage has impressed this season for Reading

As a 20-year-old in his first season in a new club, Savage has impressed in the midfield for Reading.

The Welsh midfielder was ever-present for the Royals in the first half of the season, starting 14 matches in the league and impressing, despite Reading struggling to pick up results in League One.

He netted twice and assisted once in his breakthrough season so far, but in recent weeks the young star has found himself resigned to the bench, although he almost always is brought on as a substitute, showing how crucial he is to the side.

A move to Derby County could help further his development, as it could give him the opportunity to play consistent first team football for a team challenging for promotion back to the Championship.

It also has the added connection to his father, Robbie Savage, who played for Derby for four season between 2007 and 2011. This would be an added bonus for the young midfielder, although it is clear that so far Derby have not submitted an acceptable bid for Reading to accept.

As Carlton Palmer said, the offer made for the player will dictate whether the transfer will happen, although a lower fee than expected may be required due to Reading's financial situation, which would only benefit Savage if he were to move.