Reading have failed in a bid to try and land Stephen Hunt’s brother Noel, according to the player.

“I knew this had been on the cards and I heard the club knocked back a bid,” said Dundee United star Noel, who is a year younger than the Royals winger at 25.

“It’s an honour to be linked with such a big club and obviously it’s something I’d be interested in.

“Stephen has spoken a lot about how huge they are.”

Frontman Noel has been with United for two years,  having signed from fellow Scots side Dunfermline for £50,000.He has made three appearances for the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side and played one game for the B team.