QPR will reportedly look to loan out Conor Masterson and sign a new central defender in the January transfer window. 

The west London club have weighed up sending the 22-year-old out on loan in the previous two transfer windows but a move failed to materialised in the summer due to a lack of cover, while he stayed put last January after breaking into the first team.

According to West London Sport, however, the R's are planning to loan out Masterson in the upcoming window but it seems that will hinge on them signing more cover at the position.

The report claims that R's boss Mark Warburton is concerned that a lack of first-team action could harm the defender's development and wants him to play more regularly.

The Irishman has made 18 appearances for Rangers since he made the move from Liverpool last summer but just four of those have come this season, with Yoann Barbet and Rob Dickie ahead of him in the pecking order.

Masterson is clearly highly rated at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, having signed a new three-year contract in September.

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The Verdict

This makes a lot of sense and is likely a move that would be beneficial for both Masterson and the club.

The Republic of Ireland U21s international looks like a player with a bright future but he isn't likely to displace either Barnet or Dickie anytime soon, meaning regular football is can only come away from the R's.

There should be a fair amount of interest in the central defender, who is solid defensively and confident in possession, particularly among League One clubs.

Given the first-choice duo are the only other out-and-out centre-backs in the senior squad, reinforcements are clearly needed before a move away can be sanctioned for the 22-year-old.