One-time reported Rangers target Aaron Hickey has joined Serie A side Bologna – and could kick off his Italian adventure against AC Milan and global superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Italian side kicks off their top tier campaign against the Milan giants who have the legendary Swedish forward on their books.
According to STV, the deal will see Hearts rake in £2m for the highly-rated 18-year-old full-back who also had interest from the likes of Bayern Munich, Lyon and Celtic.
The full-back also told the broadcaster that he can’t wait to get started.
“I’m really excited,” said Hickey.
“I just want to get over there and get started.
“Bologna’s a massive club, everything about it. I’ve been over and seen it all and it’s just got a really nice feel to it.
“There’s a family feel to it with the supporters and everything. I’m just dead excited.”
Hickey was heavily linked to Rangers last season after the Scottish Sun claimed incoming Gers sporting director Ross Wilson had made the Hearts full-back a signing priority.
This was then played out in the press as then Jambos boss Craig Levein fielded questions about the Gers’ reported interest.
Levein laughed off the suggestion Rangers could move for Hickey and joked that the Tynecastle side could launch a bid for Morelos.
“Who do we play at the weekend? We’re going to put an offer in for [Alfredo] Morelos tomorrow,” said Craig Levein [Edinburgh Evening News].
“I’m taking that one with a lump of salt.
“I’m still working on [a new contract for Hickey]. I want to just try and get it done with his dad and then I’ll talk about it.”
In the last few months Rangers have scarcely been mentioned amongst the suitors tailing the youngster but this has been one of the most interesting sagas of the Scottish window.
Should Hickey get his chance at Bologna, he will become only the fifth Scottish player to play in Serie A.
