ALEX Pearce has been officially released by Reading FC.
The former Royals Academy graduate has allowed his contract to run down and is poised for a free transfer.
Three former Reading managers are among those tracking the 24-year-old defender, who was the club's Chronicle-sponsored Player of the Season in 2012.
Pearce has been heavily linked with Alan Pardew's Newcastle United and Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool, though sources suggest Brian McDermott is keen on taking him to Leeds United.
McDermott already looks likely to sign one of his former Reading players following strong interest in Noel Hunt.