Rangers legend Barry Ferguson admits he likes what he’s seen from Cremonese striker Cyriel Dessers as he reportedly closes in on a move to Ibrox.
The second-half of the Conference League semi-final clash between Marseille and Feyenoord at De Kuip was only ten seconds old when Cyriel Dessers put the hosts 3-2 up.
To make the timing of his goal even more remarkable, it came directly from a Marseille kick-off; the Belgian-born Nigeria international immediately forcing the opposition back towards their own goal before intercepting a misplaced back pass and finishing in style.
If any goal epitomised what Dessers could bring to Rangers, it was this.
Mick Beale wants more from his centre-forwards than a mere goal-threat, and Dessers is arguably the epitome of what the Rangers boss looks for in a number nine. A goalscorer, yes – that Marseille effort was one of 20 he netted for Feyenoord in 2021/22 – but also the first line of defence as well as the last time of attack.
And Ferguson, scrolling through the statistics and getting himself up to speed with the 28-year-old poacher, is excited about what Dessers promises to add to Beale’s squad.
Rangers still hope to seal Cyriel Dessers deal
“Todd Cantwell and Nico Raskin have been outstanding additions to the squad and there’s no reason to doubt the trio he has already signed (Butland, Sterling and Dowell) will be any different. There’s also plenty of talk about Cyriel Dessers coming in,” the former Rangers captain tells the Daily Record.
“Again, like (Sam) Lammers, he will be a name that’s not particularly well known to people. But since being linked with them, I’ve been doing a bit of research. And I like what I’ve seen and read.”
Rangers last week were reported to be closing in on a deal for Dessers; offering £4.2 million, rising to £5.2 million (Calciomercato). Cremonese are yet to green light the proposal. But, after suffering relegation from Serie A, they seem powerless to prevent Dessers’ eventual exit.
He should become Rangers’ second striker signing of the summer. Sam Lammers had his move from Atalanta confirmed earlier this week.
“Neither of them have prolific scoring records in Italy, where they’ve been playing of late. But Serie A and Serie B are tough places to get on the scoresheet. The style of play (is) generally more suited to stopping the opposition from making and taking chances,” Ferguson adds.
“Beale is meticulous enough to have done his research. (He) clearly believes Lammers is a player who can be an asset. Dessers will come into the same category. As I said, his recruitment record so far has been good.
“(Beale) has earned the right to be trusted with this rebuild.”
