Transfer news in the Championship remains centred on the release of players from clubs as the free agent market buoys in the weeks following the campaign’s conclusion.
Big-money moves are likely to come further down the line but stars released from clubs including QPR are already attracting interest.
The R’s feature alongside Watford and Leeds United in your Thursday Championship round-up.
Former QPR stars released from the club this season have already been linked with new ventures in the EFL and the latest is midfielder Stephen Duke-McKenna.
The 23-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Sutton United, has emerged as a target for League Two outfit AFC Wimbledon according to London News Online. Johnnie Jackson’s side placed 10th in the fourth division last term and could view the former Everton and Bolton Wanderers youth star as an improvement at the heart of midfield.
Confirming Duke-McKenna’s departure this week, CEO Christian Nourry said: “I was struck immediately by Stephen’s inquisitive mind and immense desire to improve his game. I think he demonstrated in the opportunities that he got during his recent loan spell that he is a player with a promising career further afield.
“We both feel that this is the moment for him to forge his own path elsewhere. I wish him nothing but the best for the future.”
Watford release experienced stars
Watford have released Jake Livermore, Ben Hamer and Ashley Fletcher following the conclusion of the Championship campaign as Tom Cleverley prepares for his first full season in charge of the Hornets.
It’s a significant loss of experience in the squad as the former Manchester United man shapes a new side. Livermore had made 32 appearances since joining from West Brom last summer but managed just six minutes under Cleverley.
The Watford Observer confirmed the news on Thursday morning, with Jeremy Ngakia reported to have put pen to paper on a new deal at Vicarage Road.
Leeds United linked with £2.5m defender
Leeds United have been linked with a summer transfer move for Gent centre-back Jordan Torunarigha. Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg labelled the Nigerian as ‘one to watch’ ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Whites join Bundesliga duo Stuttgart and Hoffenheim in monitoring the 26-year-old, who could be available for between £2 and £2.5 million at the end of the campaign. The Nigerian and his side are currently fighting for a Europa Conference League spot in Belgium.
Torunarigha will be in the final year of his contract at Gent next season, meaning the club could look to cash in with the player touted as a potential replacement for Leeds United club captain Liam Cooper.
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