Little is known of QPR's summer signing from Genoa but with a fee of £2.2m agreed should he impress in his one year loan it's clear somebody somewhere really rates the 20 year old winger.

DOB – 24/05/1985
Contract – 2009(loan)

Emmanuel Jorge Ledesma was one of three young Serie A stars to sign for QPR in the summer of 2008. Matteo Alberti joined permanently from Chievo, Samuel Di Carmine came on loan from Fiorentina while Ledesma did a bit of both – on loan for 12 months with an option for QPR to buy the Argentinean winger for £2.2m in a year’s time. That would represent a substantial outlay for QPR, close to their record transfer fee and more than they’ve spent on a player in more than a decade, so clearly Ledesma is highly rated and tipped for great things.

The 20 year old left footed attacker joined from Serie A outfit Genoa after impressing Iain Dowie and Gianni Paladini in Italian youth tournaments over the summer. Dowie said “I went to watch him in Italy and although Genoa lost that particular match he was the outstanding player on the pitch. He’s incredibly creative and has exceptional ability on the ball. He can play across the front line and has an excellent range of passing. He’s one for the future but technically he’s ready now. He will need time to adapt to the style of the English game, and the Championship in particular, but I’m very excited about him.”

Ledesma said: ““It’s an incredible opportunity to be able to play for QPR and I am delighted. When I heard that they wanted me, my heart just filled with joy. I am going to try and work extremely hard to achieve my dream and the club’s dream as we work with passion.

“I heard that the QPR fans are like the Genoa supporters and this is good because young players always need encouragement from the supporters. I cannot wait to go to London and begin my new adventure in this new environment and I am ready to show my qualities and be available for the coach. I want to achieve and gain some good results and I think the outcome will be marvellous.”

Flavio Briatore told the official website: “I am extremely grateful to Enrico Preziozi [Genoa owner] for giving QPR the opportunity to sign Emmanuel. He is a great young talent and we are looking forward to welcoming him to QPR.”

He is the third Argentinean to play for QPR following popular left back Gino Padula and veteran midfielder Ossie Ardiles.

Photo: Action Images

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