Ruben Selles has done a remarkable job at Reading with the club sitting just outside the playoff positions heading into December despite difficult financial circumstances.
The former Southampton manager kept the Royals away from relegation trouble by securing a 16th-place finish in League One last season. The Spaniard is now attracting interest from a couple of sides struggling at the foot of the Championship table.
Reading Impress Despite Difficult Summer Transfer Window
The financial woes at Reading have affected the club for numerous campaigns and this summer transfer window was another difficult one with star player Femi Azeez joining Millwall.
There has been no let-up in sanctions placed on the club but Selles has blocked out the off-the-pitch issues to lead the team to the third round of the FA Cup, where they will host Championship title contenders Burnley.
Reading have also lost just two of their previous ten League One matches. They have impressed by beating Peterborough United, Exeter City and holding Birmingham City on their travels.
Despite bouncing back from losing some of their best players in recent transfer windows, Reading could be about to lose arguably their most irreplaceable asset.
Championship Clubs Eye Reading Manager
Hull City are in the bottom three after a poor start to the campaign that has seen Tim Walter lose his job and the club remain managerless. It is in stark contrast to the team that finished in 7th place in the 2023/24 season.
Cardiff City have also seen a change in the dugout with interim manager Omer Riza steadying the ship with four wins from 12 matches in charge.
According to Darren Witcoop, both clubs are keen on Selles to become their new manager to help steer them clear of a relegation battle.
The 41-year-old has proven himself to be adept at keeping Reading successful despite the restrictions placed on the club in the form of multiple transfer bans.
He has earned his stripes at Reading after a difficult time at Southampton and would be an ideal candidate for either side. It may appear more likely that Hull City may be the most likely destination with the hierarchy still looking for a permanent manager.
Cardiff City are on a five-match winless run but did win four of their opening six home matches under Riza and should consider giving the former Watford manager a chance to take the reigns permanently.