Rangers will not face competition from La Liga outfit Deportivo Alaves if they opt to step up their interest in Colombian centre-half Kevin Mantilla.
At least, not now a representative from the Spanish outfit ruled out a bid for one of the most exciting young defenders in South American football.
Kevin Mantilla, linked with the likes of Rangers, Torino and even Premier League giants Liverpool, had this week emerged as a potential addition for an Alaves side who secured their return to La Liga last month after finishing third in Spain’s second-tier.
But, speaking to Noticias RCN, a ‘senior manager’ at the Basque outfit has insisted that – while there has been interest in Mantilla – there is nothing in reports suggesting that he is on his way to the Estadio Mendizorrotza any time soon.
Rangers reportedly like Kevin Mantilla
“The truth is that there is nothing to comment on,” the source said. “What is rumoured is not true. It is not true that we are going to sign him.”
Mantilla currently plies his trade for Colombian outfit Santa Fe.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Santa Fe value the 20-year-old colossus in excess of £4.2 million. A fee that would likely be beyond a Rangers side who are hoping to bring in fellow centre-half Jonathan Panzo for around half that fee.
Panzo is a natural left-footer, and will replace the departing Filip Helander at Ibrox. Rangers have less need for a right-sided centre-half like Mantilla; Conor Goldson, John Souttar and the versatile Dujon Sterling all capable of operating in that role.
“(Mantilla is) a magnificent person,” explains Santa Fe president Eduardo Mendez. “He values and respects his club.”
“We have to think first of the team. Clubs have called us, looked at us, and we have the doors open.”
Mantilla, capped 18 times by Colombia’s U20 side, was reportedly in talks with FC Porto a few weeks back. A move to the Portuguese giants would see him follow in the footsteps of Radamel Falcao and Luis Diaz.
