QPR and Bolton Wanderers are both preparing moves for out-of-favour Newcastle United forward Nile Ranger.
Ranger has been told to seek new employers after Magpies manager Alan Pardew deemed him surplus to requirements.
The 20-year-old is keen to remain in the Premier League, having made 24 top-flight appearances last season, albeit generally as a second-half substitute.
He has caught the eye of a number of Championship clubs, but QPR and Bolton are both prepared to extend his involvement in the Premier League.
QPR boss Neil Warnock is having to work to a tight budget as he attempts to improve the squad that earned the Loftus Road club promotion last term, and sees Ranger, who is valued at around £1m, as a cut-price option.
Warnock is also due to hold talks with the out-of-contract Jay Bothroyd before the end of the month, but sources in London claim Ranger is viewed as a viable option if discussions with Bothroyd, who is also being courted by a number of other clubs, break down.
Bolton boss Owen Coyle is hoping to sign two strikers to replace Daniel Sturridge, who has returned to Chelsea following the end of his loan spell, and Johan Elmander, who has joined Turkish side Galatasaray.
If Gary Cahill completes a proposed £17m move to Tottenham, Coyle will be in a position to target an expensive striker to lead the line.
However, he will also be on the look out for additional forwards to add attacking depth, and Ranger’s availability at a low price is making considerable appeal.
Meanwhile, Newcastle officials remain confident that left-back Neil Taylor will complete a £1m move from Swansea City shortly.
Everton were linked with a possible approach to Taylor yesterday, but the player’s agent has confirmed there has been no approach from Goodison Park.
As a result, Newcastle remain well placed to complete their fourth signing of the summer following the capture of Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba and Sylvain Marveaux.
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