QPR and Wimbledon in merger talks

Queens Park Rangers and Wimbledon are involved in talks that could lead to a merger between the two clubs in time for the start of next season.

It is understood that the football league authorities are not opposed to any such merger and that the new club could begin life in Division One next season.

A report in a British daily newspaper claimed that an agreement between the two clubs has already been reached. Whilst acknowledgingtalks have taken place, the Wimbledon chairman Charles Koppel has denied any deal had been struck.

"Contrary to the story in the Sunthis morning, no agreement to merge Wimbledon with QPR has been reached," he said. "We realise that no agreement could ever be reached without consulting our supporters first."

It is hoped that the planned merger will prevent QPR, already relegated to the second division and facing financial ruin, from going bankrupt.

According to the report in the Sun, the main problem facing the clubs at this stage is deciding a name. QPR Dons and Wimbledon Rangers are said to be two suggestions for the new club.

But fans of both clubs could also bring a halt to the move. A proposed merger between QPR and Fulham in 1987 was defeated by supporters of both clubs.