Rob Couhig reveal is promising sign for Reading FC as August approaches: View | OneFootball

The Berkshire side must make a positive start to life under Couhig if he gets the green light to purchase the club, with the season just weeks away.

League One side Reading are in need of a takeover deal to go through imminently.

The Royals are yet to make a single signing this summer - and although they already have a decent squad at their disposal - they are in desperate need of more quality and depth in some areas.

In fact, the goalkeeping department is the only area where they have too many options at this stage, so there's plenty of work to be done.

The left-back area must be looked at as a priority, but the centre-back, wing and striker positions also need to be addressed before the summer transfer window closes.

Signings will only be made if there's a change of ownership though - and it remains to be seen whether former Wycombe Wanderers owner Rob Couhig will be able to get a deal over the line in the coming days.

According to Reading Today, a takeover deal is not yet complete.

It has been reported by the local outlet that the American lawyer is now in "advanced negotiations" to buy the club, but there are two hurdles that need to be overcome.

Firstly, the consortium Couhig is leading needs to prove to the EFL that they have the required funds to run for the club for at least two years. This proof will be required before the group passes EFL checks.

As well as this, the final terms of the sale will need to be agreed with current owner Dai Yongge.

Despite the fact a deal hasn't been finalised yet, it has been reported that Couhig has met with manager Ruben Selles (pictured above) and the players at the training ground.

Considering the new season is less than three weeks away, Couhig will need to make a very good impact when he takes over if the Berkshire side are to enjoy a positive start to the season.

Facing Birmingham City on the opening day of the campaign and coming up against some very tough teams during the early stages of the 2024/25 season, it's so important that the new owners are fully prepared to take the reins.

By meeting Selles and the players, this may have given Couhig a clearer picture of what needs to be done during the very early stages of his reign and that can only be a good thing.

Selles will know exactly what areas need to be addressed before the summer window closes next month, and with Couhig potentially discussing what money will be available to the Royals' boss to spend on wages, that may give the recruitment team a chance to look at which transfer targets they can realistically sign.

And there are plenty of additions that need to be made.

With Matty Carson, Nesta Guinness-Walker and Matty Carson all being released following the end of their contracts, Jeriel Dorsett is the club's only senior option there.

Dorsett may even be needed at centre-back, with the likes of Nelson Abbey, Tom Holmes, Tom McIntyre and former loanee Zane Monlouis all leaving this calendar year.

Further up the pitch, the wing area is in desperate need of signings, with their lack of threat on the left-hand side for much of last term not helping their cause.

And Sam Smith needs more competition for a starting spot up top. If the ex-Cambridge United man sustains an injury, they don't have an adequate replacement at this stage, with Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan playing better on the wing at times.

The Royals will still be under embargo terms for the remainder of the window, regardless of a potential change in ownership, but possible discussions held between Couhig and club officials should put the Berkshire side in a strong place if or when the green light for a takeover is finally given.