Reading are reportedly preparing an offer for Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole.

The 30-year-old is currently on loan at Lille and will return to Anfield next week following Les Dogues' final-day clash with Nancy.

Royals manager Brian McDermott is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of the club's return to the Premier League next season and he will propose a loan move for the former England international, according to the Daily Star.

However, the Berkshire side are said to be unwilling to pay the player's reported £70,000-per-week wages in full.

Cole, who has two years remaining on his current Liverpool contract, had previously been told by former Reds manager Kenny Dalglish that he had no long-term future at the club.

However, following the Scot's dismissal, the player is said to be waiting to see who replaces him before committing to a move.