QPR are reportedly preparing a bid for in-demand Oxford United defender Rob Dickie, who has long been their first-choice target at centre-back.

After a disappointing end to the 2019/20 campaign, Mark Warburton is looking to add to his squad ahead of the new Championship season – which gets underway in a few weeks' time.

According to West London Sport, the R's are keen on signing at least one central defender this summer and Dickie has long been top of their list.

The report claims that QPR are set to make an offer for the 24-year-old.

They look set to face some tough competition, however, as Championship rivals Nottingham Forest and Premier League clubs Fulham, Leeds United, Newcastle United, and West Bromwich Albion have all been linked with the defender.

Dickie was integral to Oxford's promotion push last term – featuring 49 times as the U's made it to the League One play-off final.

A product of the Reading academy, the centre-back has been ever-present at the heart of Oxford's backline since first joining in January 2018 – making 113 appearances in all.

Can you name where each of these 14 ex-QPR players are playing now?

The Verdict

This would be a fantastic signing for the R's, particularly given the other sides linked with the defender this summer.

Warburton's side were free-scoring last term but were fragile defensively, conceding the third-most goals in the league, so signing a centre-back should be a top priority.

Dickie has been a commanding presence in Oxford's backline for a number of seasons now and looks ready to make the step up to the Championship.

He strikes me as the sort of player that could help to marshall the R's defensive unit, which is just what they need.