Reading have planned further talks with Republic of Ireland international Alex Pearce to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

The 24-year-old came through the Royals youth ranks and has established himself in the first team since making his debut in 2006.

However, he is out of contract next month and Liverpool are believed to be interested in snapping him up.

Director of football Nick Hammond said that the two camps have struggled to reach an agreement throughout the course of the season, but has not given up hope of persuading Pearce to stay at the Madejski Stadium.

"We have been speaking to him with regards to his contract throughout the season," talkSPORT quote him as saying. "Unfortunately, up until this point we have not managed to find a deal which is mutually acceptable to both parties.

"I am keen however, now the season has finished, to have a further conversation with Alex and his representatives to understand his thoughts and give him the club's final position."

Pearce made his international debut at Craven Cottage last September, scoring a goal in a 4-1 win over Oman.