Reading are set to step up their interest in Cork City defender Alan Bennett after Ibrahima Sonko suffered a knee injury during Saturday's fiery 3-1 victory over Sheffield United.

The Royals have already made a bid of around €150,000 for the 25-year-old centre back which was turned down but manager Steve Coppell is believed to be ready to go back with an improved offer of around €300,000.

Coppell is also thought to be looking at Luton Town's Leon Barnett with a view to signing him before the closure of the January transfer window on Tuesday next week.

Powerful defender Sonko, who left Madejski Stadium on crutches, after suffering his injury in the first half against Sheffield United, is waiting for the results of a scan but it is feared he has suffered medial-ligament damage to his right knee and could be out of action for up to a month.