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Reading have made a bid for Hull City defender Jack Hobbs, sparking speculation that the takeover at the club is all but completed.

Tigers boss Steve Bruce confirmed the offer earlier today and said Hobbs, currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, would be recalled on Monday.

The 25-year-old would then be allowed to talk to Reading about a possible switch to Madejski Stadium.

Speaking after this afternoon's 1-0 win at Watford, Royals manager Nigel Adkins spoke glowingly about Hobbs, who he managed when he was at Scunthorpe United.

He said: "I had Jack at Scunthorpe. He's an experienced defender who has captained teams in the Championship."

Adkins will face considerable competition for Hobbs, however, especially from Forest where he has spent the first half of the season.

"That must mean he's a good player," said Adkins.

The bid for Hobbs is another indication that the takeover at Reading is set to be completed.

Rival consortiums from America and Oman are trying to take control of the club from absent owner Anton Zingarevich.

Adkins had hinted on Thursday that he would not be able to bring any players in until the club had secured new investment.

So the fact that a cash offer has been made for Hobbs must mean that things have taken a dramatic step forward during the past 48 hours.

When asked if the club has new owners, Adkins smiled and replied: "I can't make any comment on that at this moment in time."