'Deal Agreed': QPR and Blackburn Rovers dealt fatal transfer blow by West Brom

QPR and Blackburn Rovers are set to be beaten to the signing of in-demand Bristol City goalkeeper Max O’Leary by Championship rivals West Brom.

The R’s remain in the market for a shot-stopper this month with head coach Julien Stephan flip-flopping between Joe Walsh, Paul Nardi and Ben Hamer so far this season. O’Leary had emerged as a top target but the London outfit will now have to turn attention elsewhere.

O’Leary was first choice at Ashton Gate under Liam Manning last season but has fallen down the pecking order after the arrival of Radek Vitek on loan from Manchester United. O’Leary had featured just five times this season, when Vitek was injured.

Julien Stephan on QPR goalkeeping situation

Speaking about the goalkeeping situation at Loftus Road earlier this week, Stephan told the Hounslow Herald: “For example, against Leicester, we played with Hamer, even if Nardi did well before, because I wanted a goalkeeper able to build from the back because I thought for the game plan, it was very, very important against Leicester.

“Sometimes it’s a question of game plan and characteristics. But I agree, we need some continuity. It’s important for the back four.”

Derby County had also initially been linked with interest in O’Leary, alongside QPR and Blackburn Rovers, but it is none of that trio that are set to win the race. Sky Sports reported Lyall Thomas claims that West Brom have agreed a deal with Bristol City.

QPR and Blackburn Rovers beaten to transfer by West Brom

On Thursday morning, Thomas wrote: “Max O’Leary is set to sign for West Brom on a permanent six-month contract. The goalkeeper is leaving Bristol City with six months left on his deal there.

“Sky Sports News reported earlier this month that O'Leary had interest from QPR, Blackburn and Derby, but he is now set to join Eric Ramsay's side.”

The 29-year-old has spent his whole career at Bristol City, also experiencing loans at Kidderminster Harriers, Bath City, Solihull Moors and Shrewsbury Town. He earned a first Republic of Ireland appearance in June 2025.

QPR had also been linked with out-of-favour Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson earlier this month. The 25-year-old played a key part in the Black Cats’ promotion campaign last time out but has been second choice this term.

Those links had suffered a blow with Sunderland supposedly only looking to let the player leave on a permanent exit with a fee too high for a second tier side. There have, however, been renewed reports of a loan departure with London rivals Millwall also eyeing a swoop for Patterson.

In other news, Millwall and Charlton Athletic battle for £1m Championship striker as QPR star on transfer list - round-up.