SAM Baldock has completed his highly-anticipated move to Reading, penning a three-year deal at Madejski Stadium.

The 29-year-old forward, who joins from Premier League outfit Brighton and Hove Albion, was one of Paul Clement's top transfer targets this summer.

Baldock passed a medical on Monday and will be available for Royals' Championship opener against Derby County on Friday evening.

The striker fell out of favour at Amex Stadium and was told he could find a new club this summer.

Sunderland AFC were also rumoured to be tracking the former Bristol City forward but he opted to move to the Championship with Reading.

The Royals opening game on Friday which kicks-off at 8pm will be shown live on Sky.