Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez has been identified as a summer target by Ligue 1 side Stade Rennes, according to reports in France. The 24-year-old Nigeria international is one of three centre-backs on Rennes' shortlist, alongside Toulouse's Charlie Cresswell and Wolves' Yerson Mosquera.
Fernandez's rise at Ibrox
Fernandez joined Rangers from Peterborough in a deal worth around £3.5 million last summer as part of a major recruitment drive. After a slow start, he became a key figure in Rangers' backline during an impressive campaign. His performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, including Feyenoord, Bayer Leverkusen, and Borussia Dortmund.
A significant sell-on percentage was written into the agreement with Peterborough, meaning Rangers would likely demand top dollar to sanction a quick turnaround sale. Ouest-France reports that Fernandez is on a three-man defensive shortlist for Rennes.
Fernandez's commitment to Rangers
Towards the end of last season, Fernandez insisted he was in no rush to leave. When asked where he sees himself next season, he responded: “I see myself being here. I've still got four years left on my contract, whether that's to run down my contract. I'm happy I'm here. I'm happy to carry on being here.”
Other potential big-money exits
Fernandez is not the only Rangers player who could command a bumper fee this summer. Belgium international Nico Raskin is attracting interest from Italy, with Atalanta keen on signing the 25-year-old as a replacement for Ederson, who is on Manchester United's radar. Corriere dello Sport reports that Atalanta boss Maurizio Sarri has personally requested the club sign Raskin, who is now the club's top midfield target.
Additionally, PSV Eindhoven have reportedly named Rangers frontman Youssef Chermiti on their three-man striker shortlist, as they consider cashing in on Ricardo Pepi. Voetbal International reports that a fee in the "double digit" millions would be required for the £8 million Ibrox recruit, who is being considered alongside Alvaro Rodriguez of Elche and Monaco star Mika Biereth.
