Watford's Matej Vydra joins Reading on season-long loan

Matej Vydra, a leading figure in Watford's promotion to the Premier League, won't be sticking around for the club's initial return to the top flight of English football.

The 23-year-old forward joined Reading on a season-long loan Tuesday in a deal that includes a fee of £2 million.

Vydra spent last season at Vicarage Road on a season-long loan from Udinese Calcio and played a vital role in Watford's promotion, notching 16 goals and five assists while appearing in 42 of the club's Championship fixtures.

He also scored in Watford's 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion, a result that, coupled with two other scorelines, secured his side's return to the Premier League. Vydra subsequently signed a five-year contract at the beginning of July.

"When I heard last week that it might be possible for Matej to come out of Watford on loan I immediately made him my priority target," Reading manager Steve Clarke said. "Thanks to a lot of effort and great backing from the owners we now have in our squad for this season a proven Championship goalscorer.

"I don't need to highlight Matej's qualities as they are there for all to see. This is a signing that should excite everyone connected with Reading and I look forward to working with Matej for a second time."

Vydra played under Clarke for a short time at West Bromwich Albion.