QPR are facing a battle with at least two other clubs for the signature of Crystal Palace midfielder Ben Watson.

Former Palace boss Iain Dowie, now in charge of Rangers, is at the head of the queue for the 22-year-old, who has rejected a lucrative new contract at Selhurst Park .

Reading have also long been linked with Watson, who has a year left on his current deal, and the interest of other clubs could spark a bidding war for the former England Under-21 international.

Eagles boss Neil Warnock told the Croydon Advertiser: "Ben has rejected our contract offer which would have made him the highest-paid player at the club and his agent is hinting to me that he might want to try something new.

"QPR are leading the race, but two or three clubs have made firm enquiries about him."