QPR manager Marti Cifuentes is optimistic about the possibility of strengthening his team further before the transfer window closes at the end of August. Despite already securing the signings of Koki Saito and Karamoko Dembele, along with other players such as Jonathan Varane, Zan Celar, Liam Morrison, and Hevverton Santos, Cifuentes is hopeful of adding more reinforcements in the coming weeks.
Speaking about the club’s transfer activities, Cifuentes acknowledged the financial challenges and the competitive nature of the current market. However, he expressed satisfaction with the recent signings and believes they address the team’s needs effectively. He added that the focus now is on ensuring that the new players can perform at the expected level, while also hinting at the possibility of further additions.
Karamoko Dembele, one of the new signings, accompanied the team to Cambridge but did not feature in the match. However, Cifuentes confirmed that Dembele is likely to be included in the squad for the upcoming game against Sheffield United. On the other hand, Koki Saito, the Japan Under-23 international, is awaiting a work permit before he can start playing. Despite the administrative delay, Cifuentes expressed his excitement about the potential contributions of both players.
Cifuentes emphasised that while Dembele and Saito possess talent, they are young and will require time to adapt to the demands of English football. He highlighted Dembele’s familiarity with the English game, having experience in the Championship, but noted that Saito would be facing a new challenge in a different football environment. The manager acknowledged the quality of the new signings but underlined the importance of patience in allowing them to settle into the team.
Looking ahead, Cifuentes is optimistic about the impact that Dembele and Saito can have on the team, particularly in terms of individual skills and attacking prowess. He highlighted the need for additional depth in the squad to handle one-on-one situations and provide creativity in the final third. While acknowledging the adjustment period that the new signings will require, Cifuentes remains hopeful that they will eventually make significant contributions to QPR’s campaign.
As the transfer window deadline approaches, QPR fans can expect further developments as Cifuentes and the club’s management continue to work on strengthening the team for the challenges ahead. The focus remains on building a competitive squad capable of achieving success in the demanding Championship league.
