Reading have announced their first and the EPL's first signing of the winter by pulling off a surprising £600,000 deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Daniel Carrico.
However, he has barely seen the pitch this season after failing to agree terms to a new contract with his current deal which runs out in June of this year.
Carrico wrote a farewell letter on Sporting's website on Monday night.
In it he said: 'It is with mixed emotions that I write this farewell message. I'm leaving the club of my heart, where I had the privilege of graduating (through the youth ranks) and serving for several years.
'I'm leaving because I understand that I am at a stage in my career when I have to take chances. Moreover, the proposed project is extremely exciting to me and know I can succeed.'
Reading confirmed they had struck a deal for the former Portugal Under 21 international to join the Royals on an initial two-and-a-half year contract, with the option of an extra year after that.
A statement on the club's website read: 'Reading football club are delighted to confirm we have agreed a deal to sign Sporting Lisbon's club captain, midfielder Daniel Carrico.
'The 24-year-old joins the Royals to begin the club's investment in this January window. He is a versatile player and can play in the centre of defence as well as in midfield. He has signed a contract until the summer of 2015, with the option of a further year.'
Reading said Carrico, who has only made two appearances this season, will join up with his new team-mates later this week.