noelyf
VIP Member
Reading have signed centre-half Ian Harte from Carlisle on a permanent deal and brought back Blackburn utility player Zurab Khizanishvili on loan.
Former Leeds defender Harte, 33, who scored 18 goals for Carlisle last season, joins for an undisclosed fee.
Georgia international Khizanishvili, has agreed a season-long loan with the Championship side.
The 28-year-old spent four months on loan at the Madejski last season, making 15 appearances.
Former Republic of Ireland international Harte began his career with Leeds where he experienced Champions League football before joining Spanish side Levante in 2004.
He returned to England after three years and had spells with Sunderland and Blackpool before joining Carlisle in March 2009.
Despite playing in defence Harte was the Cumbrians' top scorer last season.
He agreed an extended deal with Carlisle earlier this month but joins Reading until June 2012.
Reading boss Brian McDermott told the club website: "We've got ourselves a player of great quality and versatility.
"Carlisle fought very hard to keep him. He was a main player for them and we're very pleased he has signed."
Harte said: "It's my birthday today and it's the best present I could have wished for. I'm really looking forward to getting started."
Former Dundee and Rangers player Khizanishvili, skippers his national side and can play in midfield or defence.
Reading lost just three of the 15 games he appeared in for them last season.
McDermott said: "He was a real favourite with our fans. We know exactly what we're getting and it's a really positive addition to our squad."
Best of luck to Ian Harte