Rangers are facing increased competition for Tromso midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl after Cardiff City had a £5.5 million bid rejected by the Norwegian club. Derek McInnes' side had previously seen a £5 million offer turned down for the 20-year-old last week, with Tromso holding out for their £7.5 million asking price. The newly-promoted English Championship side has now joined several European clubs in the race to sign the highly-rated midfielder.
Transfer Battle Intensifies
Both Rangers and Cardiff are considering whether to return to Norway with improved offers for Hjerto-Dahl. Tromso sports director Lars Petter Kraemer-Andressen confirmed ongoing negotiations: "There have been negotiations over the past week. We'll see what happens, it could take a while. Several clubs are interested, but a lot has to fall into place for something to happen." He added that the club has high price expectations and that Hjerto-Dahl's departure is not certain. Hjerto-Dahl has previously indicated a preference for Rangers over Besiktas, and he remains under contract for another three years, having scored six goals and provided two assists this season.
Findlay Curtis Aims for First-Team Role
Meanwhile, Findlay Curtis has expressed his desire to become a permanent fixture at Rangers after a successful loan spell at Kilmarnock. The Scotland international pushed for a temporary exit last season but now wants to establish himself under Derek McInnes. Speaking to Rangers TV, Curtis said: "I think it is one of those ones where you can't really sit on a bench at this age; you need to go and showcase your talent. I did push for a loan, I think it was the best thing for me." He added: "I've done really well, scored really good goals, and it has put me in good stead for this season, and I can't wait to get going. I'm really happy to be back at Rangers now. I want to showcase my talent here, in Europe and the biggest stage."
Pandur Move Confirmed by Hull Boss
Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic has admitted mixed emotions over the sale of goalkeeper Ivor Pandur to Rangers for £6 million. The Croatian international, who was part of his country's World Cup squad, joined Rangers as the club splashed out on a new keeper for the upcoming campaign. Hull were forced to sell Pandur and midfielder Aidon Shehu to Panathinaikos due to the threat of a points deduction for breaching English Premier League profit and sustainability regulations. They replaced Pandur with Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland. Jakirovic said: "On one hand, I'm sad at losing Ivor, but on the other hand, I'm happy for him because he got great terms at Rangers. And it's no small thing to play for Rangers. We had to sell him because Financial Fair Play was hanging over us and we risked a six-point deduction. So I wish him all the best and I hope he continues his good form."
