Stephen Kelly having Reading medical

Reading are on the verge of signing Fulham right-back Stephen Kelly after the defender went for a medical at the club today.

Kelly has fallen out of favour at Craven Cottage this season, with Sascha Riether being preferred to the 29-year-old at the back.

Fulham boss Martin Jol confirmed that the move is close to completion, and that he expects the Republic of Ireland international to join the Royals on a permanent deal.

"We will try to get one or two players in," Jol said.

"One example is right-back as Stephen Kelly, who went for a medical at Reading today. It is close to completion.

"I expect him to join Reading permanently."

Kelly joined Fulham in 2009, making 71 appearances in all competitions for the club since then.