The 23-year-old centre-back, who was born in Loughborough, is due to undergo a medical this afternoon and will move to the Madejski Stadium on a four-year deal.
Advertisement
Blackett was linked with the Royals earlier this summer, although that speculation eventually fizzled out as the club focused their attentions on pursuing a deal to sign Liam Moore from Premier League champions Leicester City.
And with Manchester United’s new head coach Jose Mourinho not having Blackett in his plans for this season, especially after the signing of Eric Bailly from Villareal, he is willing to loan him out so he can continue to get first team action.
The Royals have been linked with Moore all summer but the former England under-21 worldwide was hopeful of remaining at the King Power Stadium.
They face a potentially tricky trip to Berkshire on Saturday, as Jaap Stam’s Reading have already blown hot and cold so far this season.
He only featured in one Capital One Cup game last August before heading out on loan to Bristol City, following previous loan spells with Bradford City and Brentford.
He is now under contract at United until 2017, having signed a new deal last February.
Brighton manager Chris Hughton praised in-form winger Anthony Knockaert for his starring role in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Reading.
The England under-21 global is reportedly seen as a left-back contender by Stam, although he’s operated largely at centre-back during his time among United’s senior squad.
Advertisement
His arrival would also provide much-needed competition for Jordan Obita, who has faced preciously little competition for a first-team berth over recent years.
