Ricardo Santos(Image: Getty Images)

Reading are reportedly closing in on the signing of Swansea City centre-back Ricardo Santos as the Royals look to bolster their defensive options during the January transfer window.

Football League World report the League One side have agreed a fee with Swansea for the 30-year-old, with a permanent move now progressing subject to personal terms and a medical.

Talks between the clubs are said to have advanced positively, with confidence a deal can be wrapped up shortly.

Reading boss Leam Richardson has been keen to add experience and physical presence to his back line as his side push towards the play-off places, and Santos fits that brief.

The defender is expected to provide competition and depth alongside the likes of Paudie O’Connor, Finley Burns and Derrick Williams.

Santos has found opportunities limited at Swansea this season, making just one senior appearance after coming off the bench in a 3-0 defeat at Bristol City in late November.

Swans head coach Vitor Matos is thought to be open to allowing the defender to move on as he continues reshaping his squad for the second half of the...