Queens Park Rangers have agreed a deal to sign Wycombe Wanderers forward Richard Kone, beating a host of Championship rivals to one of League One’s most sought-after players.
According to reporter Pete O’Rourke, QPR have reached an agreement with Wycombe for the 22-year-old, who has been on the radar of several clubs since bursting onto the scene last season.
It is believed the fee will start around the £2.75 million mark, but is expected to rise with add-ons, given Wycombe’s reluctance to accept almost twice that in the winter window.
QPR have agreed a fee with Wycombe for striker Richard Kone. #QPR #Chairboys pic.twitter.com/PVImN3VYrZ
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) August 11, 2025
In-demand forward
Kone has attracted consistent attention since early 2024, with Luton Town seeing bids more than £5 million rejected in January. In recent months, he has been linked with Wrexham, Swansea City, Leicester City, Preston North End, Norwich City and Middlesbrough.
QPR’s capture would mark a significant coup for head coach Julien Stéphan, whose side began the season with a 1-1 draw against Preston North End. The Frenchman, noted for developing young attacking talent, has already added four new faces this summer, including Kwame Poku, and appears keen to secure a reliable goal scorer to lead the line.
Breakout campaign
Kone joined Wycombe from non-league football in 2024 and quickly became a fan favourite. Known for his pace, strength and clinical finishing, he scored 18 goals and provided three assists in 41 League One appearances last term, earning a place in the 2024/25 League One Team of the Season.
Comfortable operating as a lone striker or alongside a partner, Kone’s adaptability and work rate made him a constant threat to opposition defences. His performances have fuelled expectations that he is ready to step up to Championship level.
If finalised, Kone will join an attacking group at Loftus Road featuring Karamoko Dembele, Ilias Chair and Poku, giving Stéphan the focal point his side have arguably lacked. The move underlines QPR’s intent to be competitive this season after a measured summer of recruitment.
Writer’s View
This is an ambitious signing for QPR and a clear statement of intent. Kone’s rise from non-league to one of League One’s top performers has been rapid, and his combination of physical presence and natural finishing ability should translate well to the Championship.
For a club looking to push up the table, adding a forward with his ceiling could prove decisive, particularly under a manager known for nurturing young, attacking talent. If the deal goes through, QPR will have addressed a key area of need with a player capable of making an immediate impact.
