Jamie Mackie believes Oxford United defender Rob Dickie should ignore Premier League interest and sign for QPR.
Newcastle have been linked with the 24-year-old centre-back, as have newly promoted Leeds.
But Mackie, who had two spells at QPR before playing alongside Dickie at Oxford, believes the player’s development would improve were he to move to Loftus Road.
Mackie told West London Sport – which has been reporting for some time that Dickie is a top target for QPR – that he has told Dickie he should join Mark Warburton’s side.
“I speak to him a lot and can only say great things about QPR because of my affiliation with the club and how much I loved it there,” said Mackie.
“I’ve only got positive things to say about him too. He’s matured massively.
“I played with him for two seasons and last season he matured into not just a good footballer but a good leader as well.
“He’s getting better and better as he matures with age and as a footballer.
“He’s very comfortable with the ball and is a good player.
“I think he’d be a great addition for QPR and I’d love to see them sign him.”
Rangers boss Warburton is keen to beef up his back four with central defenders who are good on the ball.
And Mackie added: “I wouldn’t just say to any lad who gets the opportunity that it (joining QPR) would be the right fit for them necessarily.
“But for him, and the way the manager there wants to play – he’s very comfortable on the ball – it seems like he would fit in.
“It also seems the right fit because they’re trying to bring through younger players.
“It’s a great place to go if you’re a young lad wanting to play at a great club.
“I’m sure it would be a good move for him.”
Dickie was left out of Oxford’s squad for a friendly against QPR on Saturday – perhaps suggesting a move is close.