Reading v Sheffield Wednesday: Takeover should help Gray move in market

Throughout much of last summer and this month, the Owls chief has been fielding ‘will-it-won’t-it-happen’ questions about takeovers, with Hafiz Mammadov’s ill-fated attempt dominating events throughout the close season.

Following the recent developments regarding a fresh takeover attempt from the Thai consortium, Gray was entitled more than most to keep his fingers crossed it would get over the line, with his wish now finally granted.

As well as being able to solely concentrate on football, Gray is conscious that the news will have a positive impact on his attempts to boost his squad.

Gray has extracted plenty out of his ninth-placed side, who head to Reading today, boasting the joint-second-best away points tally in the division along with Derby.

Gray is now planning to discuss his transfer plans with the new owners shortly, mindful perhaps that the winter transfer deadline is looming large at 11pm on Monday.

One deal close to fruition is the £375,000 deal to sign Romanian striker Sergiu Bus from CSKA Sofia. He is due to have a medical and thrash out personal terms at Hillsborough.

Expressing his relief, on more than one count, at the takeover developments, Gray said: “It means I can concentrate all my efforts on the football.

“It’s a really positive movement and we can all look forward to the future.

“I will look forward to sitting down with the new owners and talking about budgets and the football operation now we can put the speculation to bed.”