Manchester City midfielder George Evans has joined Championship side Reading in a permanent deal.
The 21-year-old, who came through City's youth academy, has signed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Royals.
Evans spent the first half of the season on loan at Walsall, making 16 appearances and scoring four goals.
Former Walsall boss Dean Smith was reportedly interested in taking the Manchester-born player with him to his new club Brentford.
However, Evans has opted to join Championship rivals Reading and could make his debut in Saturday's clash with Sheffield Wednesday.
BREAKING: We're delighted to announce the signing of @GeorgeEvans70 from @MCFC! Read more https://t.co/DRDBT09h3Y https://t.co/aQSz6zaxFx
- Reading FC (@ReadingFC) January 19, 2016
His only appearance for City came in the 4-1 Capital One Cup win over Sunderland in September when he was an 89th-minute substitute. It meant Evans became only the second player in City's history to represent the club at every age level having joined the club at the age of seven.
He scored a spectacular 30-yard strike in a postseason tour game win over Toronto FC last May and joined up with City's senior squad later in the summer for their preseason tour of Australia and Vietnam.
Evans has played for England at under-19, under-17 and under-16 levels and had successful loan spells at League One sides Scunthorpe United and Crewe Alexandra last season.
Reading manager Brian McDermott said: "He is a great guy and a terrific young midfielder with great pedigree, and I'm sure he will become an even better player working in our environment at Reading."
The deal is believed to be a free transfer that includes bonus payments based on performance and appearances.