QPR's director of football Les Ferdinand has admitted it's hard to compete financially with the Premier League following the news of Josh Bowler's imminent move to Everton.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, Ferdinand says has done all he can to convince the 18-year-old to stay at Loftus Road, but says the winger made it clear he wanted to make the move.

Ferdinand said: "I had a chat with Josh and his dad in May and told him that he would play for our first team quicker than Everton's.

"I made all the points about the advantages of being here at QPR and hoped it resonated with him.

"We hoped to keep hold of him, but when a Premier League club comes knocking on the door, they have the finances to make a move."