Rangers have dramatically re-entered the race for Tromso midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl, with reports claiming the Glasgow club is ready to hijack Cardiff City's move for the 20-year-old Norwegian international.
According to Norwegian outlet Nordlys, Rangers officials have flown out for advanced talks with Tromso, and the Ibrox club is prepared to raise its offer to £6.7 million to secure the player. This comes after Cardiff City had a £5.5 million bid rejected, with Tromso holding out for £8.5 million.
Cardiff Close to Agreement but Player Prefers Rangers
English Championship side Cardiff City appeared to be leading the race after seeing a £5.3 million bid from Rangers rejected earlier. Reports south of the border suggested an agreement between Cardiff and Tromso was close, but Hjerto-Dahl has yet to agree personal terms with the Bluebirds, leaving the door open for Rangers.
The Norwegian U21 international has openly admitted he is keen to join Rangers, conceding he has already thought about his first Old Firm derby against Celtic. "It's been a week since the offer came and it was rejected. I accept that. But of course it's tempting to think about playing in an Old Firm match," Hjerto-Dahl told Norwegian media. "It's a big and very well-known local derby. I've watched clips from there and it looks like it's a great match with great atmospheres in the stadiums."
Rangers' £6.7m Bid and Advanced Talks
Rangers had earlier seen a £5.3 million bid rejected by Tromso, but the Scottish giants have now cranked up their interest in the last 24 hours. Nordlys reports that Ibrox officials have jetted out for talks with the club, which are at an "advanced" stage. Rangers are ready to raise their offer to £6.7 million to secure the player, potentially hijacking Cardiff's deal.
Meanwhile, in other Rangers transfer news, Derek McInnes is edging closer to sealing a move for Partizan Belgrade captain Vanja Dragojevic.
