Rangers in talks with in-demand Caulker

QPR have been given the green light to hold talks with Cardiff City defender Steven Caulker after meeting an £8m release clause in his contract.

West London Sport recently revealed that the England international, 22, was the subject of an offer from Rangers, who are one of several clubs hoping to sign him.

Harry Redknapp wants at least one centre-back this summer and a bid has also been tabled for 20-year-old Nottingham Forest prospect Jamaal Lascelles.

Meanwhile, R’s boss Redknapp has told The Telegraph he expects a deal for Rio Ferdinand to go through.

Chairman Tony Fernandes has reservations about signing the 35-year-old former England star, who is a free agent after leaving Manchester United.

Rio Ferdinand and QPR chairman Tony Fernandes
Chairman Fernandes could block a deal to sign Ferdinand.

But Redknapp said: “We’re hopeful of getting that one over the line. I can’t foresee any problems with it and we’d be delighted if we can get it done soon.”

Ferdinand, cousin of Rangers legend Les Ferdinand and whose brother Anton also had a spell at Loftus Road, won 81 England caps and played in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.

He played under Redknapp at West Ham prior to an £18m move to Leeds in 2000.

Redknapp planned to sign him if Rangers won promotion back to the top flight and their play-off triumph duly paved the way for a deal to be discussed.

Ferdinand, who was on QPR’s books as a schoolboy, was troubled by injuries towards the end of his time at United but in May Redknapp told West London Sport he believed he still had plenty to offer.

“He would be a fantastic free transfer for somebody,” Redknapp said.

QPR are one of several clubs interested in  Lascelles.
QPR are one of several clubs interested in Lascelles.

“He’s a fantastic player and still has a lot to offer. He’s had his injuries and it’s whether he stays fit. If he fit’s he’s a top, top player.”

Redknapp knows Caulker well too, as they were both at Tottenham.

Caulker represented Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics and scored on his England debut against Sweden later that year.

Spurs opted to sell the player the following summer and Cardiff, then newly promoted to the top flight, paid £8m to sign him.

He made 39 appearances for the Welsh club last season, scoring five goals.

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