QPR TURN TO YOUTH!
In the first transfer window under the new owners and manager, Queens Park Rangers have turned to youth, as they look to a long term strategy to eventually climb the ladder whilst not endangering the club financially. The hope is that this process will see the club keep spending low, whilst eventually moving the players on for a decent profit. Realising the they would struggle to compete with the top teams after being beaten to the likes of Mason Greenwood & Callum Hudson-Odoi to Norwich & Stoke, the club fortunately had a list of alternative targets which they have turned to.
1. Freddie Woodman £1.1m - The young goalkeeper comes in from Newcastle to take the number 1 spot, with Lumley available as back up. Yes to have a full season as a number one even on loan, but expected to be the clubs future.
2. Jordy Gaspar LOAN - Right back with pedigree, comes from Monaco to replace Angel Rangel. Not a long term viable option, but should make an instant impact.
3. Ethan Laird £170k - A future prospect from Manchester United. Not expected to make much of an impact this season, but should eventually come good.
4. Jack Whatmough £950k - The clubs main target. A centre back that goes under the radar after being brought through at Portsmouth, will surely challenge to be a starter alongside Toni Leistner.
5. Jonathan Panzo £600k - A replacement target, but like Whatmough, a player that maybe the top clubs in the division should have looked at. Hopefully could be part of a partnership with Whatmough.
6. Max Broughton £200k - Another centre back, who won't necessarily make the step up this season, but could be massively important in the future if used in the right way by the manager.
7. Ryan Cassidy £900k - The only player signed who plays in the oppositions half. With Hemed & Wells up top, Cassidy comes in to play back up, and to learn his trade before hopefully making the step up next season when the loan deals end.
All in all a very well worked window for the club, who have in previous seasons spent mega money on players for little to no return. The hope is that these players will become the future, and keep the club on a sound financial footing.
In regards to the clubs poor start to the season, the owners do not see this as time to panic, as with change in strategy, it will take time to implement. The club have also announced that they
will not look to terminate Ian Holloway's contract regardless of performance this season, as they feel he will be the man to follow and implement the clubs philosophies.
