Gianluigi Longari says that Rangers have inquired about a possible signing of Young Boys’ Cheikh Niasse.
The Swiss central midfielder is of interest to the Light Blues, according to a journalist for Sport Italia via X on July 13.
This follows Longari’s earlier report on June 27 that Udinese of Serie A had also expressed interest in the 24-year-old and asked to check on his availability.
In addition to adding Norwich City captain Kenny McLean, Philippe Clement has already signed midfielder Connor Barron from Aberdeen [Daily Record, 24 June].
Philippe Clement targets new Rangers deal to join Connor Barron
Since Niasse was a consistent starter when they won the Super League title the previous season, Clement and Nils Koppen may be sent on their way since Young Boys’ answer has yet to materialize.
It makes sense that Rangers are interested because he has experience in both the Champions League and the Europa League, but it could also imply that it will be difficult to close the deal.
Despite some reports that the move was off, McLean appeared to be on track for an unexpectedly quick agreement to depart Carrow Road for the team he supports [Jonny McFarlane, 1 July] and might yet make it [Rangers Review, 5 July].
The age-old question of whether the 32-year-old player, who was reportedly the finest player in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad at Euro 2024, would deliver value for money remains.
Although Niasse is older than Barron, who is 21 years old, and the many young people who have already arrived this summer, it’s possible that Niasse doesn’t fit the experienced profile that Clement has said he is currently seeking [BBC Sport, 29 June].
However, the difficulty in parting with veteran players appears to be impeding progress during the transfer window, so he and Koppen will probably have to go outside the box and look for solutions.
