English second-tier club Reading have reportedly opened "informal discussions" with Real Betis midfielder Rafael van der Vaart.
According to getreading, Reading are "exploring a sensational move" for Van der Vaart, who has been told that he can leave Betis this summer.
The initial signs also seem promising as the regional publication claims the 33-year-old has not ruled out the Madejski Stadium as a possible destination.
However, Van der Vaart's wages pose a significant stumbling block, so a pay cut would need to be negotiated.
The former Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur star was a teammate of Reading boss Jaap Stam in Netherlands' Euro 2004 squad as the Oranje reached the semi-finals.
