Julio Cesar Free to Leave QPR Amid Manchester City and Arsenal Transfer Reports

Harry Redknapp says he is ready to let Julio Cesar leave Queens Park Rangers for free during the January transfer window. 

The Brazilian goalkeeper has not faced a shot all season for the Hoops due to Robert Green’s resurgence in form. 

Redknapp was quoted in the Fulham Chronicle (via Sky Sports) as saying he “wouldn’t stand in his way” if Cesar decides he wants out of West London.

"

He needs to play and he could play anywhere for any team. He's just been unlucky. Rob's been fantastic and I can't take him out of the team.

However, Julio's a great guy, and he needs to play soon, so he can play in the World Cup.

"

Redknapp’s comments will likely interest both Manchester City and Arsenal, which have reportedly been monitoring Cesar’s situation. 

Arsenal pursued the QPR goalkeeper over the summer—per James Orr of The Independent—as Arsene Wenger sought competition for Wojciech Szczesny.

City’s interests in the keeper have peaked since Joe Hart’s collapse in form. 

Cesar, who turns 35 next year, is anxious for playing time as he looks to take his place between the posts for the Brazilian national side when they host next summer’s World Cup. 

Cesar has been a mainstay in the Brazil starting XI throughout his career, but his position in the team is now at risk due to his lack of playing time. 

The veteran shot-stopper conceded just three goals in Brazil’s five Confederation Cup games over the summer, but since then, manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has been forced to look elsewhere for someone to fill the No. 1 shirt.

In Brazil’s last four games, four different keepers—Cesar, Jefferson, Diego Cavalieri and Victor—have all enjoyed playing time.

Cesar joined QPR from Inter Milan at the beginning of last season after spending seven years at the San Siro. 

In his time with the Italian side, Cesar won five Scudetti in succession (from 2005-2010), and he was part of Jose Mourinho’s Champions League-winning team in 2010. 

His experiences at the top would be invaluable to both Arsenal and Manchester City, but the Brazilian will likely land at the club that can guarantee him first-team football.