Queens Park Rangers are heading into the January transfer window with an embargo looming large on the horizon.

Steve McClaren’s men have recovered from a dismal start to the new campaign having lost their opening four fixtures in a row.

Since that abhorrent form, Rangers have only lost three times in 13 matches and sit 10th in the division just two points off the play-off places in what has been a sensational turn around at Loftus Road.

With their success, come the vultures, and they will be circling McClaren's better players with the financial restrictions in the club has. 

One player who could be the subject of January transfer interest is Australian Massimo Luongo who has been one of QPR’s standout players since his arrival from Swindon three years ago.

The midfield powerhouse has been an ever-present for the Hoops this term featuring in all of their 17 matches this season so far.

If Luongo is to leave Loftus Road, then here are three potential replacements QPR must consider if he's poached.

The 32-year-old is not getting any younger but could well do a job in the middle of the pitch for QPR and would add extensive experience to their youthful side.

Grant Leadbitter has only featured twice for parent club Middlesbrough this term - totally 64 minutes in the league.

With January approaching he will be desperate to get out of the Riverside and back playing regularly.

Leadbitter would undoubtedly add some steel into a QPR midfield that has, at times, been lacking.

The Scunthorpe midfielder is hitting the prime of his career, and at 27-years-old the chance to play in the Championship could be dwindling if he doesn't get a move away soon.

Having been one of Scunthorpe’s best players in recent years, this season he has started relatively well once more and could earn himself a move away.

His attributes are similar to Massimo Luongo but he is a little less physical than the Australian.

But he would certainly be a solid replacement should he sign.

The Barnsley man has been out injured for much of the season but has recently been featuring in the Checkatrade Trophy matches as he continues his rehabilitation.

Lloyd Isgrove has played a handful of games for the Tykes this term and is a talented player who is still only 25-years-old.

He first rose to prominence during his time at Peterborough on loan before a temporary move to Barnsley where he won promotion to the Championship.

He could well be back in the second tier if QPR move for the tricky middleman in the new year, should Massimo Luongo leave.