“Certainly be exciting” - Reaction given as QPR enter transfer battle to sign international | OneFootball

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Queens Park Rangers are expected to be in the market for a new goalkeeper in the summer as Asmir Begovic’s contract runs down.

QPR monitoring Stanley Nwabali

The Bosnian international has had a mixed season for the R’s, and at 36, it’s highly unlikely he will be offered fresh terms, with boss Marti Cifuentes on the lookout for a new number one ahead of next season.

Whilst no deals can be finalised now, it seems the recruitment team are looking at potential additions, as journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that QPR are rivalling Saudi outfit Al Ettifaq as they consider a move for Stanley Nwabali.

The 27-year-old is currently playing in South Africa with Chippa United, and he has also won nine caps for Nigeria, which includes starring at the recent African Cup of Nations.

Nwabali was a reliable figure for the Super Eagles as they reached the final of the tournament, but they would ultimately come up short as they were beaten by hosts Ivory Coast.

Nevertheless, Nwabali seems to have caught the eye with his displays, and he could be in line for a move in the summer.

QPR’s goalkeeping situation

As mentioned, bringing in a new stopper is sure to be a priority for the R’s who will hope to be in the Championship for another campaign.

We know how critical a position it is in football, so Cifuentes will be determined to get a clear upgrade on Begovic.

Even though Nwabali is untested in Europe, his international experience suggests he would be a coup for QPR, and fan pundit Louis echoed those thoughts as he shared his optimism at this potential deal.

“I was a bit surprised when I saw the tweet from Fabrizio Romano linking us with the Nigerian goalkeeper. Obviously, we’re going to be looking for a goalkeeper ahead of next season, with Asmir Begovic’s contract running out. From what we know, it’s only us and clubs in Saudi that have enquired about Nwabali.

“I don’t know too much about him, but he had a good African Cup of Nations with Nigeria. He plays out in South Africa, which is probably not the best level of football. Then again, keepers can adapt to different leagues and ways of playing.

“It would certainly be exciting, and one that I’d welcome, so if it was to happen it would be an interesting move. Although he plays in the South African league, to be Nigeria’s number one he has obviously got something about him.

“He’s also a decent age, arguably quite young for a keeper, so he has plenty of years ahead of him. It could be an exciting one and hopefully the rumours are true and something more will develop from it.

“He won’t be the only goalkeeper we’re looking at, there will be other names, but I’d be pleased by that potential signing.”

Any deal for Nwabali is surely reliant on QPR remaining in the Championship, with Cifuentes’ side showing some promising form in recent weeks as they battle to stay up.

The Londoners are back in action on Wednesday night when they host West Brom, seeking a fourth consecutive victory in the league.