QPR midfielder Samba Diakite is close to joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad on a season-long loan.

The Mali international, 25, has made only 11 league starts for Rangers since completing a move from Nancy two years ago, having impressed during an initial loan spell.

He ended last season on loan at Watford and was sent off on his full debut for the Hornets, which turned out to be his only start for them.

Rangers manager Harry Redknapp hoped to offload him last summer and a number of French clubs – including Nancy – were offered the chance to sign him.

This time around clubs in the Middle East have been made aware of his availability and Diakite, who has two years left on his QPR contract, looks set for a move to Jeddah.

See also: QPR's Diakite completes his loan move

Follow West London Sport on Twitter

Find us on Facebook