QPR boss still keen to sign centre-back

QPR manager Mark Warburton has reiterated his desire to bring in a centre-back during this month’s transfer window.

West London Sport recently revealed that Warburton was keen to make a signing during January because of concerns over a lack of cover in light of Jordy de Wijs’ frequent injury problems.

Rangers would like Michael Hector or Alfie Mawson but Fulham have indicated they are reluctant to let either player go.

Several possible alternatives are being considered, including Birmingham City’s Harlee Dean, who played under Warburton at Brentford.

Centre-backs Rob Dickie, Jimmy Dunne and Yoann Barbet have been excellent for the R’s.

But the lack of back-up options is a worry for Warburton as his team look to maintain their promotion challenge.

Warburton said: “I’ve got no doubt about the quality of those three boys.

“My worry is that we’ve (only) got three centre-halves. That’s my worry.

“A lot of work (to bring in players) is being done. I hope very much we can do that. But they have to be players to add quality and value to the team.

“We have some depth but we are still vulnerable to one or two injuries. We’ve got to make sure that we have players who are there pushing all the time.”

Barbet was a hero for Rangers in Saturday’s 1-0 win against promotion rivals West Bromwich Albion.

He needed several minutes of treatment after being bundled head-first into the advertising hoardings by Albion striker Daryl Dike.

But he bravely completed the match after having his head bandaged.

Barbet’s contract expires at the end of the season.

“There are a number of boys in that (contract) position,” Warburton said.

“He shows his quality week in, week out, and shows how much he loves being at QPR. You see that in the way he plays.

“He loves being here and I hope he’s here for a long time, but we’ll have to see how it is.

“Yoann’s been excellent for us. He goes under the radar, Yoann. He’s not a typical centre-half. He’s cultured and loves to play.

“But you saw the nasty gash on his head and then he comes back on and wins three or four vitally important headers.”