Reading complete swoop for Sodje

Sodje scored 14 goals in his time with the Bees

Premiership new-boys Reading have bolstered their defensive ranks by signing Sam Sodje from Brentford.

The Royals have paid £350,000 for the 27-year-old Nigeria international centre-back, which could rise to £500,000 depending on appearances.

Sodje, who joined Brentford on a free from Margate in May 2004, made exactly 100 appearances for the London outfit.

He said: "I have come a long way in the last two years and this move is a new challenge, but I believe I can do it."

Sodje turned down a move to Southampton on the final day of last season's January transfer window but the chance to play in the top-flight proved too good to turn down.

He said: "It is every player's dream to play in the Premiership, and I am delighted to get this opportunity.

"I have spent some time here in the last few days, met some of the lads and it seems a great club. Everything feels right and I think this move will lead to good things for me."

Royals boss Steve Coppell said: "Anyone who's seen Sam play knows he's got a magnificent leap for his size. He's so good in the air and his timing is excellent.

"He's got good pace, and he's an out-and-out defender.

"So many defenders are frustrated centre-forwards but Sam knows he's a defender and he's in that mould. He wants to defend, he can venture forward but knows what comes first."

Brentford chairman Greg Dyke told his club's website: "We were duty bound to inform Sam of Reading's interest and are delighted both for the player and with the deal, as had he remained with us until the end of the season he could have left the club for nothing."