Bolton, Portsmouth and West Ham may step up their efforts to land Stephen Hunt after he revealed he was unhappy with his current Reading deal.
The midfielder signed a new two-and-a-half year contract just six months ago, but after a successful first season in the Premier League, Hunt is demanding a further pay increase.
The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international is upset at earning less than his team-mates and a host of other Premier League clubs could be prepared to pounce if he fails to agree new terms.
Hunt told The Mirror: "I spoke to Steve Coppell and he understands where I am coming from.
"I'm not asking for anything silly - just to earn the same as my team-mates."
Pompey boss Harry Redknapp confirmed his interest when he admitted he was "impressed" with Hunt last season, but did not think he would want to leave Reading this summer.
Bolton boss Sammy Lee has also been linked with a £1.5million bid for the player, while he is also thought to be on the shopping list of West Ham manager Alan Curbishley.
Royals boss Steve Coppell has expressed his desire to keep hold of Hunt, but the return to fitness of Bobby Convey and rumours of a swoop for Celtic midfielder Thomas Gravesen could put pressure on Hunt's place in the Reading first-team and make him consider a summer move.
