theglobalsun – Queens Park Rangers have completed the signing of striker Richard Kone from Wycombe Wanderers for an undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old forward arrives after a standout campaign in League One. Where he scored 21 goals and won both Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards. Kone played a crucial role in Wycombe’s fifth-place finish last season, drawing attention from several Championship clubs. QPR secured the deal to boost their attacking options under head coach Julien Stephan, as the team looks to improve on its goal-scoring record from last season.
Read More : Tesla Ends In-House Dojo AI Supercomputer Project
No player in QPR’s squad reached double figures last season under former boss Marti Cifuentes. The club’s last player to score 10 goals in a single campaign was Andre Gray in 2021–22. Kone, who represented Ivory Coast in the Homeless World Cup in 2019, scored 25 goals in 74 appearances for Wycombe after joining from non-league side Athletic Newham in 2024. His rise from grassroots football to the professional ranks highlights his work ethic and determination.
In his first interview with the club, Kone expressed excitement about the move: “It’s an amazing feeling. I’m really glad to join an amazing team, a great club. I can’t wait to get started.” He added, “I made my mind up that when the opportunity came, I’d be ready. It took time, but I took my chance, and here I am.” The length of his contract at QPR has not been disclosed.
Kone Adds Firepower to QPR’s Rebuilt Forward Line
Richard Kone’s arrival adds much-needed depth to a QPR attack that struggled for goals last season. The signing comes as part of a broader rebuild, which has also seen the additions of Rumarn Burrell and Slovenia international Zan Celar.
QPR’s top scorer last season was Michael Frey, who remains part of the squad and now faces new competition for a starting spot. Kone’s proven scoring ability in League One offers strong promise, especially as the club aims to climb the Championship table under new head coach Julien Stephan.
The Rs began the 2025–26 Championship campaign with a 1-1 draw at home against Preston North End. That was followed by a 3-2 defeat to Plymouth Argyle in the Carabao Cup, where defensive lapses overshadowed the team’s attacking efforts. QPR are also adjusting to the departure of Charlie Kelman, last season’s League One top scorer. Kelman joined Charlton Athletic after scoring 27 goals while on loan at Leyton Orient. His exit created a gap in forward options that Kone’s signing is expected to help fill.
Read More : Burton bolsters defense with Revan loan from Wrexham
Kone brings pace, strength, and a clinical edge to the front line, offering versatility alongside Frey, Burrell, and Celar. With the Championship season underway, QPR will look to integrate him quickly as they aim for improved results and a stronger attacking presence. His journey from non-league football to one of England’s most competitive divisions adds a compelling narrative to QPR’s ongoing rebuild.
