Queens Park Rangers are preparing to cut their losses on striker Zan Celar, with the club expected to actively seek a permanent transfer for the 26-year-old when the January window opens.
Disappointing Spell in West London
Celar arrived at Loftus Road with significant promise in July 2024, signed from Swiss club FC Lugano by former manager Marti Cifuentes. The Slovenian forward was intended to be a key attacking force for the Championship side but has failed to live up to expectations.
His time in London has been marred by injury problems and poor form, managing just two league goals throughout the entire last season. Both goals came in a single match – a memorable 2-0 victory against Cardiff City – but this proved to be the highlight of an otherwise underwhelming campaign.
Current Situation and Future Prospects
In an attempt to revive his career, Celar was sent on a season-long loan to German second-tier side Fortuna Dusseldorf this summer. The arrangement included an option for the Bundesliga 2 club to make the move permanent.
However, the loan spell has not yielded the desired turnaround. Celar is yet to score for Fortuna Dusseldorf, and according to reports from SportsBoom, QPR are now anticipating his return in January and are actively seeking a buyer.
The club has reportedly already offered the player to clubs in Turkey, while interest from Polish side Pogoń Szczecin and Slovenian club Slovan Bratislava existed before his move to Germany. At Loftus Road, Celar has fallen well down the pecking order behind summer signings Richard Kone and Rumarn Burrell.
Contrasting Fortunes at Charlton Athletic
In more positive news from London football, Charlton Athletic have secured the future of one of their promising academy products. Keenan Gough, the captain of the club's under-21 side, has signed a new long-term contract during the international break.
The defender, who joined the Addicks' academy at under-9 level, has already made significant strides this season. He earned his senior debut in the Carabao Cup fixture against Cambridge United in August and has featured in manager Nathan Jones's last two Championship matchday squads.
Jones expressed his delight at the new deal, stating: "We're delighted to see another young player commit his future to the football club. We believe in Keenan, who has done fantastically well for the U21s, and when he steps up with us he impacts on all of our training."
The manager also highlighted the importance of the club's academy, noting that Gough's progression demonstrates the system is producing quality players that the first-team staff are excited to develop.
