QPR are set to bid £4 million for Ron Vlaar as the ideal partner for Rio Ferdinand.
The imminent arrival of the former Manchester United legend demands pedigree in central defence as Rs bid to cement a comfortable berth in the Premier League.
With Steven Caulker reportedly headed for south to Crystal Palace rather than west London, 29-year-old Vlaar is one of the preferred alternatives.
The Dutchman was one of the surprise hits of the World Cup. Rangers showed interest before Vlaar and the Netherlands headed for Brazil, but both his stock and price has risen since he helped the men in orange to third place.
'Concrete Ron' is in the last year of his contract at Aston Villa, and because the Midland giants are in a state of flux over new ownership, has yet to be offered an extension.
Vlaar is on holiday as all World Cup players are, and will not meet up with boss Paul Lambert for a fortnight at least. By which time, Rs will know for sure where original target Caulker is headed from relegated Cardiff and can execute Plan B.
The Dutchman is understood to be on £30,000-a-week at Villa Park, but Rs will be expected to up that to £40k at least.
However, manager Harry Redknapp may have to turn up the persuasion and charm to head off other suitors that include Italian giants Roma and his national boss Louis van Gaal at Manchester United, ironically on the hunt for Ferdinand’s successor.
