Report: Derby County close to signing Nick Blackman from Reading

Derby County is close to upgrading its attacking unit with the capture of Nick Blackman from Reading, hijacking Sheffield Wednesday's move for the forward.

The transfer is expected to be completed after Blackman and Derby negotiate personal terms, and will cost the Championship side £2 million, according to John Percy of The Telegraph.

Blackman was reportedly on the verge of joining Sheffield Wednesday, but Percy notes that the 26-year-old preferred a move to The Rams.

With his contract up in the summer, Reading appears eager to cash in on Blackman following his impressive start to the season. He currently leads the team with 11 goals and should provide a boost to Derby's quest to win promotion back into the Premier League.

Derby currently sits second in the Championship table with 48 points through 25 matches.