Reading striker Nahum Melvin-Lambert has become St. Patrick's Athletic's latest acquisition from the English youth scene.
The 18-year old has joined Pat's on loan from the English Championship side.
Earlier this week, Stephen O'Donnell signed West Ham U23 midfielder Alfie Lewis on loan until June 26.
Melvin-Lambert has scored six goals in 11-appearances in Premier League 2 Division 2 this season, and 12 in total for Reading Academy.
He made his senior debut for the Royals in September, coming off the bench in their 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Colchester. He's since made substitute appearances against Luton Town in both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
In confirming the loan deal, Reading announced the striker had signed his first professional contract with the club running to the summer of 2022.
"I'm very happy to have joined St Pat's and I'm looking forward to getting started," Melvin-Lambert told StPatsFC.com.
"I've have good conversations with Stephen [O'Donnell] after my agent told me about the option to go on loan.
"I have heard a lot about the club and the league. This is a great opportunity for me, it's an exciting challenge and one I'm ready for.
"I'm looking forward to the physical side and the competitiveness of the league and to playing in games with points on the line. I'll work hard and will be aiming to score some goals at Richmond Park!"
O'Donnell added, "I'm delighted to get Nahum on board, we are very happy to have him and to get it done before the deadline.
"He has a great goalscoring record in the Reading U23s and has scored six goals in his last eleven games.
"Nahum will give us a lot more attacking options heading into the season. He is excited about the move and about getting going in League of Ireland first team football."
Melvin-Lambert will wear the number-9 jersey at Pat's this season, and they begin their campaign away to Dublin rivals Shamrock Rovers on March 19.
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