Rangers linked Morecambe winger Carlos Mendes Gomes has been asked about his future days after the departure of his manager Derek Adams.
The Scottish Sun first credited the Gers with interest in Mendes Gomes back in April and links have continued since then, with the Dakar-born speedster shining in EFL League Two.
He scored 15 regular-season goals for the Shrimps before netting the decisive penalty in their playoff final win over Newport County last week.
When asked about the Rangers speculation prior to the weekend, the 22-year-old said “The Rangers thing is a rumour. And at the moment, it is just that, a rumour [Daily Record].
The manager that masterminded Morecambe’s promotion has since left the Mazuma Stadium, though, which could conceivably impact the ex-Atletico Madrid youth’s plans for next season.
The Shrimps have reportedly activated a one-year extension to his contract which ensures that even if he does head for pastures new, he won’t go for free.
When asked again about his future amid the Ibrox speculation in an interview with The Leader, the speedster offered a fairly evasive response before speaking glowingly about Adams’ impact on him as a player.
“Personally, this season has been good – but there’s always room for improvement,” he said. “I believe I can actually up it and do better.”
“Adams took my game to the next level – mentality-wise and also my technical ability. He’s given me the confidence to go onto the pitch, express myself and just be me.
“He’s added more directness to my game. My relationship with him is great, when the manager speaks highly in interviews and one-to-one, it’s really pleasing to hear.”
After providing fairly vague responses regarding the reported Rangers interest in two consecutive interviews, it looks as though Mendes Gomes is being advised to avoid the topic, perhaps until interest becomes more concrete.
The year extension to his contract means he’s not the free transfer steal the Gers may have initially envisaged, but it’s unlikely that he’ll cost the earth and his goal return last season was impressive, despite the relatively low standard at which he was playing.
For context, highly-rated Rangers winger Josh McPake made 23 appearances in the same division on loan at Harrogate Town and only managed four goals.
Mendes Gomes has a new manager as of Monday afternoon, with former Motherwell boss Stephen Robinson replacing Adams, who has taken charge of Bradford City.
In other news, a Rangers star was hooked at half-time during an international defeat on Sunday night and criticised by supporters.