READING have lost centre-back Alex Pearce to Championship rivals Derby County.

The 26-year-old’s contract was due to expire at the end of June and he leaves the Madejski Stadium on a free transfer.

Pearce, who captained the Royals during the second half of last season, is a product of Reading’s academy system and has been at the club since the age of 12. He signed his first professional contract in 2006, going on to make nearly 250 appearances for the hoops.

After completing the move, Pearce told Derby's website: “I have been at Reading for a long time. I have been there since I was 12-years-old, but there is always a time in your life when you have to move on with certain things and this is the time for me.

“Last season was a difficult season for Reading and I’m sure they will be looking to have a better season themselves next year, but for myself I’m looking at a new challenge of trying to get promoted with Derby County.

“I need a fresh challenge and this is exactly what I’m looking for. I want to now play a key part in this club moving forward of this club getting out of the Championship and into the Premier League.

“The ambition of the club was a huge pull for me. I spoke to certain people within the club and it was clear to see that there is a clear vision here at Derby to not only get into the Premier League, but stay there and that is something that you want to be part of as a player.

"It’s a big thing for me to get this deal over the line and I’m really delighted that everything has been finalised. I found out about it quite early doors after the season finished and after we had got in contact with each other, everything escalated really quickly.”