Why QPR are interested in Brighton defender Hünemeier
Chris Hughton’s warm praise for Uwe Hünemeier highlighted why QPR are interested in the Brighton defender.
The 32-year-old former Borussia Dortmund centre-back has found first-team opportunities limited since joining Brighton in 2015, largely because of their defensive partnership of Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy.
However, Hünemeier is well respected at Albion, where he is regarded as a consummate professional – and that is the main reason QPR are interested.
Hünemeier has indicated he would like to return to his native Germany when his contract expires at the end of the season, but Rangers plan to try to persuade him to join them.
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If not Hünemeier, they will look to bring in a centre-back of his ilk. And here’s why…
Experience
First and foremost, despite a general emphasis on recruiting younger players, QPR want an experienced pro to replace the outgoing Nedum Onuoha – it’s a priority for them this summer.
The centre-back position is not one they are keen to rely on youth in. Hünemeier has played in the top flight and second tier in Germany as well as having Championship experience with Brighton.
Character
Hughton remarking that Hünemeier “trains well every single day” and “has been wonderful for me personally and for this club” reflects how the player is regarded and the main reason QPR are keen.
The club’s scouting team, led by Gary Penrice, have a brief to target players with good character as well as ability.
Aware of Hünemeier’s contract situation and his reputation among those who have worked with him, he has been identified by Rangers as a potentially astute signing.
Guiding youngsters
This aspect is also seen as important by the QPR hierarchy.
One of the reasons Onuoha is highly respected in the Rangers camp is that he takes a genuine interest in the club’s young players and their development. With Jamie Mackie also leaving, and Clint Hill having previously moved on, there is a void to fill.
The squad is now heavily stocked with youngsters or players around their mid-20s who understandably tend to be very focused on their own career development.
Rangers therefore want to bring in someone who will contribute both on the pitch and off it, setting an example to younger players.
Whether they are able to sign Hünemeier, who might well be out of their reach, remains to be seen. But he is regarded as the kind of player – and professional – they feel they need to bring on board.
