Queens Park Rangers have confirmed the loan signing of Samba Diakite from French club Nancy until the end of the season.

Under the terms of the temporary switch, Rangers have the option to make Diakite a permanent addition.

Manager Mark Hughes has revealed that Rangers fought out competition from a number of clubs for the Mali international.

"Samba is a young player who has made an impression on French football," Hughes told the club's official website. "There has been a lot of interest in him from top clubs in France so we have done really well to get him in.

"He is a good age, has got strength, power, can carry the ball and can score goals from midfield on occasions.

"He will give us more physical presence and athleticism in the middle of the park so he is going to be a good addition."

Diakite, 23, is currently at the African Cup of Nations with Mali.