Soccer: QPR have confirmed the signing of Marseille striker Loic Remy for a club record fee. The France international has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at Loftus Road after choosing the Premier League basement boys over Newcastle.

Hoops boss Harry Redknapp told www.qpr.co.uk: "I'm delighted to bring him in - he's a great buy for us."

The official fee for the 26-year-old has not been undisclosed. Redknapp added: "I didn't think we'd get him to be honest but (chairman) Tony Fernandes worked ever so hard on this. He wouldn't give up on it, and it's great that we now have him here with us.

"He's always been a player I've admired. I've watched him on so many occasions throughout the last few years. I actually spent three or four hours with him last year so he knew what I thought of him, and I think that was important. He's quick, can score goals and makes great runs. His movement is excellent. He's got the potential to be a really outstanding striker."

Remy, who has four goals in 17 caps for France, is eligible to make his Rangers debut against West Ham Saturday, subject to receiving international clearance.

He said: "Harry played a big part in me coming here. I spoke to him and Tony Fernandes at length and they made it clear they wanted me here. They gave me the right motivation to join QPR. I want to develop my game here. This season the objective is to stay up but beyond that we have greater objectives.

"After seven years in France, this is the right time for me to pursue a new challenge in the Premier League - the best League in the world. I am confident I can adapt to the Premier League. My main characteristics have taken me to the level I am at today but I am keen to keep improving in the Premier League."