Aris winger Luis Palma plans to leave the Greek Super League outfit while pouring fuel on those Rangers links by admitting his interest in a move to Scotland.
There have been some rather mixed messages in recent days surrounding the extent of Rangers’ desire to bring in a man who, with 13 goals and eight assists from his favoured left-wing role, looks a readymade replacement for the departing Ryan Kent at Ibrox.
But, as they say, fire usually goes hand-in-hand with smoke.
And after Aris’ technical director appeared to confirm Rangers’ interest earlier in the month, Luis Palma himself has indicated that a move to Scotland would appeal to him, even if the Premiership is not the only destination he has his eye on.
“I like the (leagues in) Belgium, Spain, the Premier League, Scotland, the Netherlands,” Palma says, in quotes reported by Diez.
When pressed on whether he plans to leave Aris this summer, meanwhile, the Honduras international was unequivocal.
“1000 per cent,” he said.
Is Luis Palma on his way to Rangers?
According to Greek publication Sport Time, Rangers have not yet submitted a bid for the explosive 23-year-old, though Aris believe that will soon change. They are bracing themselves for offers after holding talks with Mick Beale’s side, though it remains to be seen if Rangers will meet their lofty £4.5 million asking price.
“Well, the truth is that he is having a good season. Luis Palma’s numbers are really brilliant,” Palma’s says agent Paulo Hernandez admitted a few weeks ago.
“He has earned the right to dream of being in a more important team, in a more important league. He has earned that right and he is earning the right to make it come true, without a doubt.
“What we all hope is that Luis will be sold in the transfer market this summer.
“Today, there are teams that are actively asking about his situation. There are more than 10 teams actively asking about the footballer.”
Rangers, meanwhile, confirmed their first signing of what is likely to be a very hectic summer on Wednesday. Kieran Dowell arrives on a free transfer from Norwich City.