Plymouth Argyle rush for three transfer targets ahead of QPR clash with 'approach made'

Plymouth Argyle are looking to act decisively in their hunt for a new number one goalkeeper this week ahead of a visit to Loftus Road on Saturday afternoon to take on QPR.

Wayne Rooney has lost last season's first choice shot-stopper Michael Cooper to Championship rivals Sheffield United this summer. Cooper, who is yet to make his Blades debut with the deal confirmed late last week, made 19 second tier appearances last term in an injury-ridden season.

Conor Hazard has started between the sticks for Plymouth Argyle so far this season but the side has conceded five goals in their opening two Championship fixtures. It is expected that the club moves to bring in a new number one with the latest reports hinting at decisive action before facing QPR.

Football Insider reports that Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Sam Tickle is a number one target and that an official approach has been made to bring the 22-year-old to Home Park. Argyle will face Championship competition for the transfer with another unnamed club also believed to have enquired.

The Latics are in a strong negotiating position for any Tickle bid with the player having signed a new long-term contract earlier this year, committing his future to the side until 2028.

Meanwhile, transfer specialist Alan Nixon has reported that Plymouth Argyle's keen hunt for a goalkeeping acquisition means that there are other deals in the offing. Bolton Wanderers' Nathan Baxter is named as another target alongside Blackpool's Daniel Grimshaw, the duo potentially more affordable alternatives if there ends up being a bidding way to sign Tickle.

Rooney's side sit 21st in the Championship after just two fixtures played. The Pilgrims have one point on the board thanks to a draw against Hull City last time out, the same tally as Marti Cifuentes' QPR ahead of this weekend.

The R's picked up their first point at the weekend against Sheffield United, coming from two goals behind to finish the game level at 2-2 despite a Jack Colback red card. QPR are 18th in the table.