QPR set to hail Cesar’s arrival
MARK HUGHES will complete the sensational signing of Brazilian goalkeeper Julio Cesar in the next 24 hours to replace Rob Green at QPR.
The signing of the Inter Milan keeper, who won the Champions League and five titles with Inter in seven years in Italy, is expected to be confirmed tomorrow. QPR host Walsall in the Capital One Cup tonight.
Chairman Tony Fernandes believes the signing can help Mark Hughes lift the team away from near the foot of the table. Rangers lost 5-0 at home to Swansea on the opening day, took a point from Norwich — and travel to Manchester City next .
Cesar, 32, was in London yesterday and is expected to complete a transfer for an undisclosed fee. It is a complicated deal as the London club reach an agreement on his salary. He had two years left on his Inter contract.
The news is being greeted with surprise in Brazil, where Cesar is regarded as one of their greatest keepers.
He was voted the third best in the world in 2009 as well as Serie A keeper of the year in 2009 and 2010. He may not be fit to face City, though he is said to be eager to play.
Hughes is also considering a loan move for Porto centre half Rolando as moves for Michael Dawson and Ricardo Carvalho have stalled.
The manager has vowed to put out a strong side against Walsall to avoid embarrassment and kickstart their season.
Last season, predecessor Neil Warnock opted to focus on the league and fielded a weakened side, who went out in the first round to League One Rochdale.
Hughes said: ‘ That is not the policy I will be following. We are at home against l ower- l eague opposition and it is important to progress and improve our performances.
‘There are only so many competitions that we can progress in and win. Why give up a chance by fielding a weakened side?
‘There is a chance you might get embarrassed if you don’t do it correctly.’