Clarke-Salter makes QPR switch after Chelsea exit
Former Sunderland loanee Jake Clarke-Salter said he was ‘over the moon’ after joining QPR on a four-year deal.
The 24-year-old defender joins the club on a free transfer following his release by Chelsea, having had previous loan spells with Bristol Rovers, Sunderland, Vitesse, Birmingham and Coventry.
He told the QPR website: “I am over the moon, it’ s a permanent deal and it’s time for me to settle down and progress in my career.
“It’s totally different to a loan move because this is my home and I am fully focused on doing great things with this club. This is a big step for me and one I am totally ready for.”
Former England Under-21 captain Clarke-Salter is manager Michael Beale’s first signing of the summer and the pair have previously worked together earlier in the defender’s development.
“I’ m delighted that Jake has signed for our club ,” Be ale said.
“The work behind the scenes to recruit him has been excellent from everyone involved. He is a player that was identified very quickly as one that we feel is a great fit and we are very happy he chose to sign for QPR as he was a player that had a lot of options this summer.
“He is a player that I really enjoyed working with, and that relationship and connection we have is a big reason for wanting him here at QPR.”
Meanwhile, Harry Clarke’s time at Hibernian has been cut short after parent club Arsenal activated a summer break clause in his loan agreement.
The versatile 21-year-old moved to Easter Road in January on an 18-month loan but made just eight appearances, he has been recalled by the Gunners amid reported interest from Stoke in signing him.