Reading manager Jaap Stam says rumours linking the club with a move for Southampton's Shane Long are "new to him".

Reports over the past couple of days suggested the Royals were considering a move for Long, who appears to have slipped down the pecking order at St Mary's over the last six months.

The Republic of Ireland international made just 10 Premier League starts in the previous campaign and opportunities will be hard to come by this term, with Manolo Gabbiadini and Charlie Austin the preferred options up front.

Reading were said to be showing an interest in the 30-year-old, who enjoyed a successful time at the Madejski Stadium from 2005-2011, but Stam knows nothing about any offer.

The Dutchman told BBC Radio Berkshire after Tuesday's 2-1 win over Aston Villa that the speculation was "new to him" and it seems unlikely the Championship outfit will be submitting a bid for the striker.