Rangers officials have flown to Norway for talks with Tromso as the Scottish giants step up their pursuit of highly-rated midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl, according to Norwegian outlet Nordlys. This development adds fresh competition for Cardiff City, who had been in pole position to sign the 20-year-old Norway Under-21 international.
Cardiff's Pursuit Hits a Snag
Cardiff City had emerged as a reported transfer target for Hjerto-Dahl this week, with the Championship club working to reach an agreement after an initial £5.5 million bid was rejected. Sky Sports reports that talks between Cardiff and Tromso are "progressing," with the two clubs edging closer to an agreement. However, personal terms would still need to be agreed if a deal is struck, and Hjerto-Dahl is understood to be keen to consider all his options.
That has left the door open for Rangers, who have now flown to Norway for direct talks with Tromso. The report claims discussions are at an advanced stage and that Rangers are prepared to increase their offer to around £6.7 million to convince Tromso to sell.
Tromso Holding Out for Higher Fee
Reports earlier this week suggested Cardiff had moved into pole position after reopening negotiations, but Tromso are believed to be holding out for a fee closer to £8.5 million. If that is the case, Cardiff are highly unlikely to pay. Rangers, however, feel well-placed to secure the player's signature.
Hjerto-Dahl has previously admitted the prospect of moving to Ibrox is exciting. Speaking after Rangers saw an earlier bid rejected, he said: "Of course it's tempting to think about playing in an Old Firm match. 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. Of course you think about it. But when the bid is rejected, that's how it is and then you just have to focus on what you're going to be involved in at the weekend."
Rangers Also Eyeing Other Targets
Sky Sports adds that while Rangers have shown interest in Hjerto-Dahl, they have yet to submit an improved bid and are also progressing with a move for Partizan Belgrade captain Vanja Dragojevic. Cardiff, meanwhile, have been slow in their transfer business this summer, having only signed Nathan Trott permanently after the goalkeeper impressed on loan last season. Supporters are desperate to see new additions, with the step up from League One requiring quality reinforcements to complement homegrown talent.
