Diakite 'joins QPR'

Nancy have announced Samba Diakite has joined QPR on loan until the end of the season and the deal could become permanent.

Midfielder said to be flying to London to sign a contract

Nancy have announced Mali midfielder Samba Diakite has joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the season and the deal could become permanent. The 23-year-old is currently on international duty at the Africa Nations Cup, but he has been allowed to fly to London to sign his contract. And QPR will sign Diakite on a permanent basis if they avoid relegation from the Premier League, according to Nancy. "Samba Diakite is officially on loan to English club Queens Park Rangers until the end of the season," the Ligue 1 side said in a statement. "This loan will change automatically to a permanent transfer if the London club, currently 16th, stay clear of the relegation zone." Diakite's debut for QPR will depend on how far Mali progress in the Africa Cup of Nations. They are presently third in Group D with three points from two games, level on points with second-placed Guinea with one match to play. QPR were on Saturday knocked out of the FA Cup following defeat by Chelsea and Mark Hughes' side sit two points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.