Promotion-chasing Reading defender Joseph Mills has signed a new two-and-a-half-year extension to his contract with the Royals.

Mills joined the Royals on a one-year deal from Southampton last August and has played 12 times this season, an injury restricting his appearances since November.

"It's a great feeling to finally get it done, when I first joined I knew it was only until the end of the season so I had to work hard and make an impression as quickly as possible," Mills told the club website.

"It's nice to commit myself here; I said from the moment I arrived that the lads made me feel really welcome. I have now moved into the area and I'm very happy to be here."

Director of Football Nick Hammond said: "He came to us from Southampton on a free transfer in the summer, he'd not been in the team there and has done very well to force his way into our squad and our team.

"He's on an upward curve and this new contract is a reward for his progression. Now as he keeps working he will be looking to secure a place in the starting eleven."