SAINTS loan striker Nicholas Bignall has signed a new contract at his parent club, Reading.

The 20-year-old, who is at Saints for an initial one-month spell, has now been tied to the Madejski Stadium until the summer of 2012.

His previous deal was due to expire at the end of this season, but Reading have moved quickly to extend his stay with them.

Royals director of football Nick Hammond said: "We’re pleased to sign Nicholas to a new contract, he is a promising young player and if he continues to progress then we are hopeful he can make an impact here.

"He's one of a number of players to come through our Academy, he's been in and around our first team and with the benefit of loan moves that can help him make the next step.

"He's at a good club in Southampton and we're keen to see him continue to do well."

Bignall revealed he was pleased to gain the contract extension, while also stating he was enjoying his time at Saints.

"I'm very happy to be continuing my career at Reading," he said. "It's the first club I've joined and I live in the town, so the longer I can stay here the better.

"I think they see me as a player for the future so it's up to me to roll into those shoes and try and fulfil what they see in me.

"It's really good down at Southampton, the training is really good and I've been fitting in really well with the lads - so hopefully I can kick on and show everyone what I can do down there."