The Royals have agreed a fee with Aston Villa for the sale of defender Nicky Shorey.

The 27-year-old is now set to discuss terms and have a medical at Villa Park later today.

Director Of Football Nick Hammond told readingfc.co.uk, "I can confirm that I have agreed a fee with Aston Villa for Nicky Shorey.

"It was a fairly straightforward conversation with Villa and now I expect the deal be concluded before the weekend."

Shorey joined the Royals in early 2001 for a fee of £25,000 from Leyton Orient.

He has made 296 appearances in a Reading shirt, and became an England international during his time at Madejski Stadium.

He played in the first full international at the new Wembley against Brazil, and later against Germany as well.

Nicky did not play when we faced Villa in a pre-season friendly this past weekend, and boss Steve Coppell explained afterwards that he fully anticipated the left back to move on.

Coppell has said he would like to sign a replacement as soon as possible as we head into the new Coca-Cola Championship season.