Rangers Accelerate Summer Business Under Derek McInnes
Rangers have completed six new signings this summer, with manager Derek McInnes revealing that two more deals are close to being finalized ahead of the friendly against St-Etienne next Wednesday. Speaking from the club's training camp in Spain, McInnes stated: "We want to make sure we are a more rounded squad when it comes to the bit that we're ready, but the work will be ongoing. We're still looking to try and get a couple of things done ahead of the St-Etienne game."
Alongside incomings, the Rangers boss is also looking to trim his squad, with several fringe players left behind in Glasgow and missing pre-season preparations. Some key players may also depart if substantial offers arrive.
Incomings: Targets and Progress
Jens Hjerto-Dahl – The Tromso midfielder has been a long-term target, but Cardiff City appear to have hijacked the move. Record Sport understands the deal to Ibrox is on the brink of collapsing in favor of a switch to Wales.
Vanja Dragojevic – A move for the Partizan Belgrade captain is inching closer, with the cash-strapped Serbian side ready to accept a £4.6 million package. A 10 percent sell-on clause has been included for the highly-rated 20-year-old.
Olwethu Makhanya – Discussions around the centre-back have cooled in recent days. Reports from the United States indicate that Philadelphia Union are demanding a £3 million fee for the South Africa international.
James Penrice – Interest in the left-back has reportedly been revived to provide competition for Tuur Rommens. However, sources in Greece claim Rangers have not returned with a bid since their January offer was rejected.
Vaclav Cerny – Rangers have explored a deal with Besiktas for the 28-year-old winger, but his £45k-a-week wages could be a stumbling block. Besiktas are in no rush to let Cerny leave, despite signing Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for £17 million.
Outgoings: Players Likely to Leave
Nico Raskin – The Belgian international is attracting interest from across Europe, with Spanish sides Real Betis, Sevilla, and Villarreal mentioned. A £20 million price tag has been floated following an impressive World Cup.
John Souttar – The centre-back has interest from English Championship sides Leicester City and Sheffield United. He is in the final year of his contract and was left out of the squad that traveled to Spain for pre-season.
Danilo – The Brazilian is surplus to requirements and is edging towards another loan exit after returning from NEC. Botafogo are the leading candidates to secure his services.
Players Staying Put
Lewis Ferguson – A big-money move for the Bologna star appears to be drifting away despite initial inquiries from Rangers. Bologna assistant Andrea Tarozzi called Ferguson "fundamental," and he is expected to return for pre-season training after his World Cup exploits with Scotland.
Emmanuel Fernandez – Despite links with Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund, the centre-back is not in a hurry to leave. He is focused on next season's title race and bringing the Premiership trophy to Ibrox.
Youssef Chermiti – The £8 million frontman has been linked with Lyon and PSV Eindhoven but insists he is happy to stay at Rangers for the upcoming campaign. The club is keen to retain the striker.
McInnes continues to shape his squad as the new season approaches, with both arrivals and departures expected in the coming weeks.
