QPR are closing in on the signing of Taylor Richards from Brighton & Hove Albion.

According to West London Sport, the 21-year old is set to join Michael Beale’s side this summer.

The midfielder spent time in the youth academy at Fulham and Manchester City before arriving at Brighton.

He spent last season on loan with Birmingham City, where he played six times in the Championship for Lee Bowyer’s team.

Richards is contracted to Brighton until 2024, but talks have progressed between the two teams, with the player now set to join the London club.

This will see new manager Beale achieve one of his transfer aims for this summer, with the 41-year old aiming to add a midfielder, a right back and at least one forward to his team this window.

However, it is understood that the club is not looking to sign Tino Anjorin from Chelsea.

Beale took over the role as manager at QPR following the conclusion of last season, as he replaced Mark Warburton.

Rangers finished 11th in the table following an underwhelming end to the term.

 

 

Beale arrived having been assistant manager to Steven Gerrard at both Aston Villa and Scottish giants Rangers.

QPR get their season underway later this month when they face Blackburn Rovers on July 30.

The Verdict

Richards has gained some first team experience at Championship level, but has not quite earned consistent enough game time just yet in his career.

But this is still an interesting signing, with the youngster possessing a lot of potential.

Beale will be happy to have strengthened in a key area before the season does begin at the end of July.

But this will need to just be the start of the club’s transfer activity if their aim is to compete for promotion this season.