Reading keeper Alex McCarthy has reportedly started dating former 'The Only Way Is Essex' star Lauren Goodger.

According to The Sun, the 24-year-old goalkeeper, who previously dated Goodger's TOWIE co-star Frankie Essex, is "infatuated" with the reality TV star.

A source told the newspaper: "They first met last year and sparks were definitely flying. But it's not until recently that it has got serious."

McCarthy and his teammates narrowly missed out on a place in the Championship playoffs this season, finishing seventh in the table.