Leam Richardson has confirmed that Reading are pushing for further reinforcements before the transfer window shuts, acknowledging the club have missed out on a number of targets while insisting there is still time to bring new faces to the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Six in, but more wanted

The Royals have already been among the more active clubs in the third tier this summer, bringing in six players: Conor Masterson, George Earthy, Josh Stokes, Jacob Brown, Udoka Godwin-Malife and Kyreece Lisbie. Yet with fewer than seven days remaining in the window at the time of speaking, Richardson made clear that he is not done.

"We've got some offensive players on the pitch now that carry goals and we need to add a little bit to that as well," he told BBC Radio Berkshire. "We've obviously missed out on a few, there's some moving parts within that and I'll always want more because I want the best for this football club."

Richardson credited his recruitment team for their work through a busy summer and stressed that every decision has been made with the club's long-term trajectory in mind. "We've got to evolve and move forward," he said. "Our recruitment team have been working hard all summer alongside me to make the best decisions for this football club."

Squad spirit a priority

Despite the continuing push for new arrivals, the Reading boss was at pains to emphasise the cohesion that is developing within the current group. Rotation in midweek cup action has been possible, he said, because he trusts the full width of his squad.

"Our squad's quite together and the lads who didn't play on Saturday were selected [on Tuesday] because I trust them all," Richardson added. "It's important that we have a really tight-knit group; our culture had to change when I came in and we're changing it slowly."

The manager is clear that a competitive squad depth will be essential if Reading are to challenge at the right end of League One. "We've got to have even more togetherness and support if we're going to compete at the top end of these leagues," he said, pointing to some "really positive performances" in midweek as evidence that the project is moving in the right direction.

League form yet to click

Reading have not yet recorded their first League One win of the campaign, but have shown enough in cup competition to suggest the pieces are beginning to fit. A penalty shootout victory over Wycombe Wanderers in the EFL Trophy and a Carabao Cup win against Stevenage have offered Richardson some encouragement, even if the focus now shifts squarely back to the division.

The Royals return to third-tier action next Wednesday when they host Mansfield at the SCL Stadium, a fixture that gives any late window arrivals a clear opportunity to make their mark in a League One context.

What to expect before deadline

Richardson's comments suggest at least one further addition is realistic, most likely in an attacking area given his specific reference to players "who carry goals." The structure of any incoming deal, in terms of fee, loan status or contract length, has not been detailed publicly, and it would be premature to treat any link as confirmed until the club make a formal announcement.

What is clear is that the Reading manager retains the backing of his board and recruitment staff, and that the final days of the window could yet shape the Royals' prospects of mounting a serious push up the third-tier table.

Frequently asked

How many signings have Reading made this summer?
Reading have made six new signings so far: Conor Masterson, George Earthy, Josh Stokes, Jacob Brown, Udoka Godwin-Malife and Kyreece Lisbie.
Does Leam Richardson want more signings before the transfer deadline?
Yes. Richardson has said publicly that he wants to add further players, particularly in attacking areas, before the transfer window closes.
When do Reading next play in League One?
Reading's next League One fixture is at home to Mansfield at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Wednesday.