SOURCES close to Reading FC winger Adrian Popa have moved quickly to crush rumours he wants to join Greek giants Panathinaikos in January.

Reports emerged today from the Romanian international's homeland that he has become frustrated with his lack of game-time at Madejski Stadium and wants to quit.

But sources told the Reading Chronicle the reports are "completely fabricated" in order to attract attention.

They revealed that Popa did turn down a move to Panathinaikos before penning a two-year deal at Reading FC back in January 2017.

The source said: "It is a false article. We don't know who wrote it but they are trying to use his name to get views on their website.

"Adrian rejected an offer from Panathinaikos.

"He is not planning on leaving in January.

"It would be hard for him to leave because if he left he would need to go somewhere better, and that is difficult because he is not playing much."

Popa could feature against Middlesbrough when Royals welcome Garry Monk's side to Madejski Stadium on Saturday (3pm ko).