Queens Park Rangers have beaten Sheffield United and Coventry to the signing of Chelsea centre-back Jake Clarke-Salter, according to reports in England.

The 24-year-old was believed to be a key target for Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom but the player seems set to remain in London.

Chelsea are allowing Clarke-Salter to leave on a free transfer, after spending last season out on loan at Coventry. Both the Sky Blues and United were optimistic about recruiting the defender but QPR have swooped in to complete the deal.

It is believed there were two major factors in the centre-half’s decision. Firstly, he was keen to stay close to his family, after growing up in South London, while the proposed wage was believed to be superior to what was being offered elsewhere.

Clarke-Salter is expected to sign a three-year contract at Loftus Road, with a medical set to take place soon before the move is made official.