Reading manager Steve Clarke has claimed that Michael Hector's move to Chelsea is his reward for improving quickly at the Madejski Stadium.

It was confirmed on Tuesday that the Premier League champions had signed the 23-year-old on a five-year deal, but he was immediately loaned back to the Royals for the season.

Hector impressed in the Championship last season before helping Jamaica reach the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in the summer, and Clarke is confident that the defender will be a better player when he arrives at Stamford Bridge.

"This is a great reward for Michael's strong performances in the second half of last season. I'm delighted for him that he has joined Chelsea and I'm sure that he will seize his opportunity with both hands," the Reading boss told the club's website.

"Also it's a good deal for us here at Reading as we get to keep Michael in our squad this season and I look forward to helping him further his development."

Hector made his Reading debut in January 2014 after spending time on loan at 11 clubs.