QPR appear to be in the market for some midfield steel this summer, although it may be difficult to bring Isaac Hayden back permanently.
Hayden, a defensive midfielder, spent the second half of last season on loan at QPR. He had recently returned to Newcastle United after a spell with Standard Liege, but with no place in Eddie Howe’s plans, a new move was quickly arranged. The 29-year-old joined as part of Marti Cifuentes’ winter recruitment effort, bringing defensive strength and experience to the Rs’ midfield as they avoided relegation from the Championship.
Hayden’s status at St. James’ Park and his successful spell in West London have fueled speculation that he will return to Loftus Road permanently. However, sources suggest that QPR are failing to match the midfielder’s salary.
It means that alternative possibilities will be considered, and one individual who may pique interest is Luton Town’s Allan Campbell.
Available for transfer.
Campbell, 26, is back at Kenilworth Road following a difficult season on loan with Millwall. He made only 12 appearances for the Lions, who had three different managers in the previous season.
Campbell’s future at the Hatters, however, lies elsewhere, and QPR would be wise to monitor his situation.
Manager Rob Edwards has indicated that the midfielder will be free to leave, telling Luton Today: “Al will be leaving, but for the time being, he’s practicing, he’s here with us, which is fantastic because we enjoy having him around.
“Allan is an outstanding professional and a brilliant guy, but he needs to restart his career and start playing football. These are challenging decisions. We always attempt to be respectful and honest with individuals. We always strive to do things with the club’s best interests in mind, and there has to be
There’s a human side to it.
“The players want to play and they need to know where they stand as well, so it’s important I have those honest conversations with the lads.” Campbell has been with Luton Town since 2021, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 86 games. He relocated to Bedfordshire following a successful time with Motherwell in Scotland.
Three years later, however, a new switch awaits. The Championship appears to be a likely destination, and with QPR and Hayden at odds on personal terms, Campbell might be a suitable option.
Solid signing.
With a deal for Campbell, it is apparent what QPR would receive.
As Edwards himself stated, the Scot is a true professional and a good person, making him an asset to Cifuentes’ locker room. On the pitch, he is a dynamic presence in the engine room with a diverse skill set.
It enables him to play effectively as a defensive midfielder or slightly more advanced in center midfield. His physicality and eagerness to compete for the ball may make him an attractive choice if Hayden’s return is not possible. Campbell, at his age, still has many years of playing at a high level left. In reality, with an increase in playing time, the Scot may discover levels he hasn’t seen before, particularly under a top boss like Cifuentes.
QPR may prefer Hayden may have other possibilities in mind, but Campbell may be a wise addition when he departs Luton Town.
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