Norwich City are among the clubs reportedly displaying interest in young Reading striker Caylan Vickers, but it appears Real Madrid are leading the race. 

Vickers, 18, turned professional with the Royals in July and has made 11 appearances for the League One strugglers this season. 

He has impressed for Ruben Selles' side but has struggled to find a natural place in his preferred 4-1-4-1 formation. The teenager has been fast-tracked through their academy and made five starts in the third tier this term. 

According to a report in the Sun, Norwich are among a host of teams who have sent scouts to run the rule over the highly-rated attacker ahead of January. 

Vickers impressed in a 5-2 win over Arsenal's U21 side in the EFL Trophy, with the Gunners supposedly keen on adding him to their academy side. Scottish champions Celtic and Championship leaders Leicester have also watched him in recent months, the report adds. 

But it appears Real Madrid are leading the race and want to nurture Vickers in their B Team, Castilla, managed by Raul, with a view to eventually developing him into their first-team squad for a La Liga title challenge in future campaigns.

Reading, who are in the midst of ownership issues, want £1million for Vickers, plus a percentage of any future sell-on. Norwich legend Mark Bowen is the Royals' head of football operations. 

Norwich Evening News: Sporting director Ben Knapper has presented his January window plans to David Wagner. Sporting director Ben Knapper has presented his January window plans to David Wagner. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

Norwich are expecting to be active in the transfer market with sporting director Ben Knapper understood to be keen to lower the average age of the squad. 

Mark Attanasio is expected to help finance any incoming business, with Knapper keen to sign players for his long-term vision. City have all of their post-Brexit slots available, meaning they can recruit players from anywhere without the need of a work permit. 

City have five Championship fixtures to navigate before the January transfer window officially opens, despite ramping up their plans.