Queens Park Rangers have moved swiftly to address a striking crisis, reportedly reaching an agreement to sign Coventry City forward Justin Obikwu. The deal comes as the club faces a lengthy spell without their injured top scorer, Rumarn Burrell.
QPR Bolster Attack with Obikwu Capture
According to reports from West London Sport, an 'agreement in principle' is in place with Coventry City for the transfer of Justin Obikwu. The initial fee is believed to be set at £500,000, though personal terms are yet to be finalised with other clubs also showing interest.
The move has been prompted by a serious injury to key striker Rumarn Burrell, who is not expected back until March at the earliest. Burrell, a summer signing, had been a revelation at Loftus Road with 10 goals before his injury against Sheffield United.
To cover his absence, QPR have already recalled Alfie Lloyd from a loan spell at Leyton Orient. Obikwu, who was recalled by Coventry from his loan at Lincoln City to facilitate the transfer, scored three goals in 17 League One appearances for the Imps this season.
Millwall's Goalkeeper Pursuit Hits Financial Snag
In other Championship transfer news, Millwall have been dealt a potential blow in their attempt to sign Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. The Lions are in urgent need of a goalkeeper after Fulham recalled Steven Benda and with Lukas Jensen injured.
However, transfer specialist Alan Nixon reports that Millwall cannot afford Patterson's full wages for a loan deal. Any move would require Sunderland to agree to cover a portion of the 24-year-old's salary while he is at The Den.
Patterson, who has 133 Championship appearances to his name, was instrumental in Sunderland's play-off promotion last season, making 45 appearances. This term, he has been limited to just one appearance for the Black Cats.
What the Deals Mean for the Championship Race
For QPR, securing Obikwu represents a proactive move to maintain their attacking threat during a crucial period in the season. Manager Julien Stephan will be hoping the young striker can adapt quickly to provide the goals needed to push up the table.
For Millwall, the financial complication in the Patterson deal is a significant setback. Manager Alex Neil is left with a major problem to solve in goal, with the club now needing to either renegotiate terms with Sunderland or identify an alternative target swiftly.
These January moves highlight the intense pressure and strategic planning required in the Championship, where squad depth can often be the difference between success and failure in a gruelling campaign.
