Tiago Ilori Agrees Reading Transfer

Tiago Ilori arrived a highly regarded 20-year-old, meant to be Liverpool’s long-term answer at centre half, a promising young star who could be eased into the team and, it was hoped, who would end up anchoring the defence for a decade when he did.

Three years later, and he’s on his way to Reading, the latest in a long list of promising young defenders—Sebastian Coates, Danny Wilson, Mikel San José—who didn’t quite end up the hoped-for defensive anchor they were signed to turn into.

In this case, though, the club will manage to turn a small profit. This despite reports when he signed that his transfer from Sporting Lisbon was for £7M. According to The Liverpool Echo, the transfer was actually worth up to £7M, but Liverpool have only had to pay £3.5M.

That means that the guaranteed £3.75M fee agreed between the Reds and Reading will see them turn a small profit. There is also a 25% sell-on fee that has been inserted into the deal, ensuing that if Ilori does come good for the Championship club, Liverpool stand to benefit.

For his part, Ilori has reportedly agreed to the transfer and personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block, meaning he is likely to complete his move in short order. Reading currently stand third in the Championship and are heavy favourites to make the playoffs.

Ilori will depart Liverpool having made three senior appearances for the club. He also spent time on loan at Granada, Bordeaux, and Aston Villa during his time on the books at Anfield.