JAKE Cooper looks set to follow the examples of other Reading FC academy stars by leaving Madejski Stadium in search for first-team football.

The towering centre-back is rumoured to be on the verge of penning a permanent deal with Millwall having spent last season on loan at The Den.

The 22-year-old helped the Lions secure promotion back to the Championship after a thrilling play-off final win over Bradford City.

Millwall boss Neil Harris previously revealed the club had already made two offers for Cooper but it is understood Royals were holding out for more cash.

However, reports today state the two clubs have agreed a fee for the Ascot-born defender and negotiations can begin iminently. 

The 6ft 6ins centre-back rose through the Royals' academy and featured heavily for the first-team under former bosses Steve Clarke and Brian McDermott.

He scored his first goals for the Royals with a brace against Norwich City at Carrow Road.

But Cooper quickly fell down the pecking order when former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam took over at the helm of the club.

He found himself limited to cup appearances before being loaned out to Millwall in the January transfer window.

Cooper made 15 appearances for the Lions, scoring twice, and was due to return to Royals' pre-season camp.

But with several players ahead of Cooper in Stam's pecking order, it is understood he favours a move away from Madejski Stadium in search for regular playing time.

Should he leave, he will follow the likes of Tariqe Fosu and Zak Jules who both opted to leave Reading FC despite being offered the chance to stay.