Queens Park Rangers showed transfer interest in Sheffield United's Harrison Burrows during the summer window. The Championship side also targeted Watford defender Marc Bola as they sought to strengthen their left-back options.
David McIntyre outlined QPR's defensive search. "The first was Harry Amass at Man United," McIntyre said. "Another was a Sheffield United player, not (Rhys) Norrington-Davies, but Harrison Burrows." The interest in Burrows developed alongside a pursuit of Watford's Bola. McIntyre noted, "At one stage it seemed like that would be a goer. One they really wanted was Bola at Watford."
Who is Harrison Burrows?
Harrison Burrows remains a Sheffield United player with two years remaining on his contract at Bramall Lane. The 24-year-old, who joined from Peterborough United, has established himself as a consistent performer. He has made 96 appearances for the Blades across all competitions, contributing 11 goals and 10 assists from his defensive role. Despite deadline-day interest from Burnley, Burrows stayed with Sheffield United, where his deal runs until June 2028. His continued presence is a positive for a Blades squad looking to build consistency, which fans can track via the club's squad page.
What other targets did QPR consider?
Marc Bola was the other primary defensive target for QPR. The 28-year-old Watford full-back recently signed a contract extension that keeps him at Vicarage Road until 2030. Bola joined Watford in June 2025 and has previous Football League experience with Notts County, Bristol Rovers, Blackpool, and Middlesbrough. Like Burrows, he remained with his club beyond the transfer deadline. QPR's initial list also included Manchester United youngster Harry Amass as they assessed multiple options to bolster their back line.
Which players did QPR actually sign?
Unable to secure Burrows or Bola, QPR moved to alternative targets. They strengthened their defensive department with the signings of Boy Kemper and Dennis Cirkin. Both players joined the club on free transfers, meaning QPR did not pay a fee for either acquisition. These signings have given QPR great strength in depth in defence as they prepare for the challenges of a long Championship season. Their current defensive options will be tested in the coming fixtures.
How are QPR performing this season?
QPR's recruitment appears to be supporting a strong start to the campaign. They currently sit in 2nd place in the Championship table after four fixtures, trailing only Swansea City. Their most recent result was a 2-1 home victory over Cardiff City. Marti Cifuentes's side will look to maintain this momentum over the coming weeks, starting with their next match against Middlesbrough. Boro have collected seven points so far this season, setting up a competitive encounter. QPR's full schedule is available on the fixtures page.
While Burrows and Bola would have been useful signings, QPR now have a settled defensive group. Their next test comes against Middlesbrough on Saturday as they aim to hold their position near the top of the standings. Harrison Burrows, meanwhile, continues his Sheffield United career with his contract valid for another two seasons.
