Samba passes medical ahead of QPR move

By Wayne Veysey Chief Correspondent

Christopher Samba has passed a medical ahead of his proposed move to QPR, Goal.com can confirm.

The former Blackburn Rovers defender is set to complete his transfer from Anzhi Makhachkala to the Premier League strugglers on Thursday after QPR activated his release clause, believed to be in the region of 12.5 million, on Wednesday.

Harry Redknapp has been desperate to reinforce his defence following the departures of Anton Ferdinand and Ryan Nelsen this month and had previously been linked with a move for Fulhams Brede Hangeland.

The former Tottenham manager, who has already added South Korean left-back Yoon Suk-Young to his squad, revealed his interest his interest in the giant centre-back before his sides midweek draw with Manchester City.

"I think Chris Sambas going to sign which is a massive signing for us," Redknapp told Sky Sports News. "Thats a key one really. Other than that theres not too much else at the moment. Ive lost Ryan Nelsen so I need to get a replacement for him so were lucky weve got Samba in.

"I think [the medical] went okay as far as I know. That happened last night so it shouldnt be a problem."

Samba attempted to force through a move to QPR in the 2012 January transfer window but Blackburn rejected his transfer request before letting him leave for Anzhi the following month.

Once Sambas move has been rubber-stamped, Redknapp is set to turn his attentions to strengthening his strike force, with West Brom forward Peter Odemwingie and former charge Peter Crouch his top targets.