Ricky Allaway, brother of hot young goalkeeping prospect Shaun at Leeds, has had his contract with the Royals terminated.
The stocky 6ft 2in centre-back, who had been available on a free transfer for some time, has agreed to join non-league outfit Basingstoke after a spell on loan at the club.
Alan Pardew was a little disappointed to lose the youngster to the Ryman League outfit as he feels young Ricky could still have a bright future in the game.
"Ricky gave it a good go here, but his chances were limited and he's been playing some first-team football with Basingstoke, which is what he needs," explained Pardew, speaking to readingfc.co.uk.
"He could well be one who comes back to haunt us, and being such a nice lad that I hope he does."
Meanwhile, Phil Whitehead has returned to the club after a disastourous loan spell at Tranmere.
The 33-year-old, who dropped from first to third choice shotstopper in a matter of days, had been sent to Prenton Park in order to get some first team football under his belt in an attempt to get a move away from the Madejski.
However, after letting in twelve goals in two games the former Oxford 'keeper was dropped and did not play for Rovers first team again, despite not being to blame for any one of the twelve goals.
It is a well known that Whitehead is no longer wanted by the Royals so he could be farmed out to another club on loan very shortly.
