Reading training ground: Wycombe put purchase of Bearwood Park 'on hold'

Reading have trained at Bearwood Park since 2019

Reading's sale of their Bearwood Park training ground to League One rivals Wycombe has been put "on hold".

Wycombe had been "in talks" over buying the facility with Royals owner Dai Yongge looking to secure funding while new owners are sought.

But Wycombe said they had since found out "planning limitations allowed only Reading to use the grounds".

They added they "would continue their search for a training ground that meets its ambitions for the club".

A Wycombe statement said: "Many of the details were still to be worked out, including potential sharing with Reading and how to ensure a smooth transition.

"Importantly, it was agreed that while the details were being finalised and due diligence carried out, Feliciana [Wycombe's majority investors] would provide sufficient financing to Reading to allow it to pay its tax obligations and operating expenses, including payroll for the staff and players.

"It was Wycombe and Feliciana's belief that they were helping Reading and professional football with the offer to assist its neighbour in a manner that had historically been used in the past by many football clubs.

"Indeed, Wycombe's own training ground had been sold over a decade ago to reduce operating expenses and fund the club when the club had its own financial issues."

Reading are seven points above the drop zone and have had six points deducted this season because of financial issues.

The English Football League previously issued a series of penalties against Dai for financial misconduct and also urged him to start funding the club or sell up as soon as possible.

BBC Sport understands Reading have a cash shortfall of about £1m for March.

'Wealthy owners lining up'

Meanwhile, former Reading chairman Sir John Madejski said he was optimistic the club would be sold in the near future.

"I think things will ratify in the near future and I think the club will be sold," he told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"There is some very wealthy owners lining up, about three as I understand it, and they've got some incredibly deep pockets.

"They might even decide to step in and keep the training ground, that would make a huge difference."