After signing Lawrence Shankland, Rangers are now battling to welcome an impressive defender, who could land a dream move away from his current club this summer.
Rangers racing to sign in-demand star
If the Gers are to bridge the gap on Hearts and champions Celtic next season, then this summer will be crucial. The 49ers have already backed Danny Rohl with Shankland – weakening Hearts by stealing their captain in the process – and still have plenty of other names in their sights.
Current targets reportedly include Josh Windass at Wrexham and Elliot Watt as the 49ers look to welcome strength in depth across all areas.
Before they can arrive, however, the focus may well be on a defensive addition. According to Expressen in Sweden, Rangers have launched an approach to sign Casper Widell from Excelsior in the Eredivisie.
The 6 foot 4 defender is reportedly dreaming of a big move this summer and whilst it’s the Gers who have made early contact, Blackburn Rovers and Derby County are ready to commence rival pursuits.
It leaves Widell spoilt for choice, especially if any one of the trio turn their interest into an offer before the start of the season. Right now, all signs are suggesting that the 23-year-old could be about to realise his dream.
Rangers fans, should the 49ers sign Casper Widell?
It’s an interesting choice that he has to make, too. The defender can pick Rangers and the chance to take the Scottish Premiership by storm – potentially winning the league as a result.
Or, he can choose the Championship, where he’ll find playoff contenders Derby and a side who just about stayed afloat in Blackburn. The ball is seemingly in his court.
Why Rangers should push to sign Widell
It should not come as a major surprise that Rangers are interested in Widell. After all, they’ve still got concerns that sides could reignite their interest in Emmanuel Fernandez.
The centre-back has gone from likely transfer flop under Russell Martin to a key part in Rohl’s side and has caught the attention of sides like Arsenal as a result.
Losing Fernandez at this stage would be a major blow, but gaining Widell could more than make up for that. And, in their ideal world, Rangers may even have the chance to form an impressive centre-back partnership if their current star stays put.
|
League stats 25/26 |
Fernandez |
Widell |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
2,267 |
3,054 |
|
Tackles |
44 |
33 |
|
Duel success |
66.8% |
60.6% |
|
Recoveries |
120 |
99 |
The duo would certainly form an impressive partnership. Whether Rangers are able to push on and secure Widell’s signature remains to be seen, however. The presence of Derby and Blackburn could yet spoil their plans entirely.
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