Queen's Park Rangers are looking to sign Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden on a permanent transfer, but have a big obstacle ahead of them.
The 29-year-old hasn't made an appearance for the Magpies since 2021 despite several loan stints.
Hayden joined Norwich City for the 2022/23 season before being loaned to Belgian side Standard Liege the season after.
That deal fell through and Hayden spent the remainder of the season at QPR.
It is clear that he has no future at the club and is actively looking for a move away with QPR the most likely option.
Players have begun training at Darsley Park for the upcoming season, the thought is that Hayden is currently training Newcastle's Under-21s squad while he sorts out a move away.
Hayden still has two years left on his deal meaning it may be more difficult to offload him.
QPR have a concrete interest in Hayden but are struggling to get the deal done due to complications with wages. With his current deal a long way from being over the clubs must compromise or go their separate ways.
Alongside Hayden, there is more "dead wood" that could leave the club this summer as the club continues its recruitment drive.
Ryan Fraser, who fell out of favour with Toon boss Eddie Howe is set to make a permanent move to Southampton in the coming weeks with a deal worth £7million being reported.
Jamal Lewis is another player set to leave after loan spells at Watford, his deal runs out at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Other players, like Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson, also look likely to leave the club. Almiron has interest from several clubs in the Saudi Pro League.