QPR are understood to be competing with Celtic for the signature of Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu after watching him play this season, according to Sky Sports Transfer Centre (18:04, 10/10).

The 24-year-old has scored 10 goals for Hearts since making the switch from Cambridge to Scotland last summer, and it is understood he has attracted the interest of a number of sides with his performances.

The Reading academy product has scored two goals and registered two assists in his six league appearances for Hearts this campaign, as he has established himself as an attacking focal point in Craig Levein's side.

QPR are rivalling Scottish Premiership champions Celtic for his services with both having watched him this term, while it is believed other Championship sides such as Wigan, Bristol City and Derby have also monitored Ikpeazu over the last 12 months.

The Rs have enjoyed a successful start to the season in the Championship having won six of their opening 11 matches, with their prolific strike force of Jordan Hugill and Nahki Wells already netting 12 goals between them.

The in-form duo are backed up by Brighton loanee Jan Mlakar who has featured twice so far this season, but it appears they are now eyeing up Ikpeazu to provide further reinforcement in attack.

The Verdict

This could be a welcome addition to QPR's squad as they aim to bolster their attack in time for a potential promotion push this season, with the club's attack in need of some further depth.

Hugill and Wells have formed an excellent partnership so far this campaign and I would not expect Ikpeazu to be able break this up, but he would provide a useful alternative from the bench for Mark Warburton's side.

Ikpeazu could provide a strong presence up top for the Rs and the striker would surely welcome a move to the West London outfit, even if he will not be getting regular first-team football immediately.

It would also represent a strong statement if QPR are able to lure Ikpeazu to the club amid transfer interest from Celtic and other Championship clubs.

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