Gareth Ainsworth, manager of Queens Park Rangers, has given a transfer update, dismissing reports tying his club to the signing of a new center-forward outside of the transfer window.
Former Derby County striker Chris Martin joined the London club as a free agent on a short-term contract in early February 2023 and scored four goals in 16 appearances before being released in June.
The Scotland international is now out of work, although journalist Darren Witcoop revealed last month that Rangers were looking to boost their attack, so re-signing Martin may not be ruled out.
QPR can sign the 34-year-old outside of the transfer window because he is not contracted to any club, but Witcoop also stated that a number of League One clubs are interested in securing his services and that the player is considering his options.
QPR head coach Ainsworth acknowledged to West London Sport that adding another striker isn’t necessary, therefore ruling out a return for Martin [quotes via WLS]:
“I’ve heard people ask, ‘Are we getting a striker in?'”
“Well, with Lyndon [Dykes] and Sinclair [Armstrong] and Rayan Kolli and Charlie Kelman – and probably Alfie Lloyd underneath them – we’ve got strikers at this club,” he added.
“It’s past time for some of these young boys to get a chance.” We gave Sinclair a chance, and look what he accomplished. Rayan Kolli is also doing exceptionally well.”
Lyndon Dykes has been out with a knee injury but is expected to return to the squad, if not the starting lineup, when QPR play Sunderland tomorrow afternoon.
Author’s Opinion
Signing Martin, a proven Championship striker, would be a smart decision for QPR, adding additional goals to the offensive department, and a deal would be low-risk considering Martin’s status as a free agent.
However, it appears that monetary constraints are a hidden force behind Ainsworth’s words, and thus a return to Loftus Road appears to be out of the question for the time being.
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