Queens Park Rangers manager Julien Stephan could be poised for further January transfer business, following the significant £4.5 million signing of defender Ronnie Edwards from Southampton. With injuries biting, including to key striker Rumarn Burrell, the R's are being linked with moves for a new goalkeeper and midfield reinforcement.
Potential New Faces at Loftus Road
According to widespread reports, Stephan is considering strengthening several key areas before the window slams shut. The most prominent rumour concerns the goalkeeping position, where Bristol City's Max O'Leary has emerged as a target.
O'Leary has lost his starting spot at Ashton Gate but brings valuable Championship experience. Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas reports that any move for the stopper would see QPR face competition from Blackburn Rovers and Derby County.
Midfield Reinforcements Sought
In the engine room, Birmingham City's Marc Leonard is reportedly on the radar. The 24-year-old, who is struggling for game time at St Andrew's, is admired by the West London club as a potential replacement should Jonathan Varane depart.
West London Sport states that QPR continue to reject bids from St Etienne for Varane, with the latest quoted fee around £5.2 million. Should the Frenchman leave, Leonard is viewed as a prime candidate to fill the void, though Norwich City and Sheffield United are also named as suitors.
How QPR Could Line Up
If the current speculation comes to fruition, Julien Stephan could field a notably different side by February. In goal, Max O'Leary could take the number one jersey. The defence would likely feature the new big-money signing Ronnie Edwards alongside Jimmy Dunne, with Amadou Mbengue and loanee Rhys Norrington-Davies completing the backline.
The midfield partnership could see Marc Leonard joined by Nicolas Madsen. In attack, the injured Burrell's absence could be covered by the recalled Alfie Lloyd and the talented Rayan Kolli, with Richard Kone also pushing for a start. Wingers Koki Saito and Karamoko Dembele would provide the creative spark.
Stephan was backed heavily in the summer with signings like Richard Kone and Kwame Poku, and it appears the club's board is willing to support him again this month to bolster their Championship campaign.
