Rangers have reportedly revived their interest in James Penrice as the club target a new left-back. The former Hearts star claimed the Greek Super League title with AEK Athens during his first campaign with the club. He left the Jambos last summer for a £2million fee, departing the club's Spanish pre-season training camp under Derek McInnes – the new Rangers boss – to seal the deal.
Penrice was linked with a switch to Ibrox in January, although it was claimed a move by the Light Blues was booted out by AEK. Reports in Greece claim that a deal for the 27-year-old is now being "reexamined" by the Glasgow giants, as they look to provide competition for Tuur Rommens on the left side of defence.
AEK Demand Significant Compensation
It is claimed that Rangers know the deal will "not be easy to do" with AEK keen on keeping Penrice at the club, with the player contracted to the club until 2028. The Greek champions are said to be demanding "significant financial compensation" to allow the wing-back to go.
Lewis Ferguson Deal Delayed
McInnes' old Aberdeen lieutenant Lewis Ferguson is also high on his wish list – but a deal looks set to be delayed. After leading the Italian side to Coppa Italia glory 12 months ago, the Bologna captain Ferguson found regular minutes harder to come by last term. The Serie A side are said to be keen on keeping the Scotland International at the club this summer – with a £17million starting price placed on the playmaker.
Reports in Italy have claimed that there has been talks between Ferguson and new boss Domenico Tedesco after the World Cup, and Gazzetta dello Sport note that any movement on the club's stance is on hold while the 26-year-old is on holiday.
Other Midfield Targets
£8.5million-rated Tromso midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl is also on the shopping list – while Partizan Belgrade's 20-year-old skipper Vanja Dragojevic is a target. Serbian outlet Arena Sport report that talks remain ongoing with the player told a move is "pending" and that he will not play a part in pre-season fixtures as it stands – but it remains to be seen if the Scottish Premiership will be the midfielder's destination.
