AC Milan have registered their interest in highly-rated Troyes central defender Sankhoun Diawara, but Rangers remain in pursuit of the 20-year-old.
Journalist Chris Jack previously revealed that Rangers have held talks over a move for the promising French youth international.
However, reports from French outlet Foot Mercato later claimed that hitches in structuring a deal had led the Light Blues to divert their attention towards Philadelphia Union’s Olwethu Makhanya.
Despite those suggestions, Rangers Review journalist Joshua Barrie clarified on Monday, 20 July, that the club’s pursuit of Diawara remains very much alive.
Barrie said, “We’ve reported previously on interest in Diawara, the young centre-back, who is 20 years old, and we believe there is still interest there.
“That’s still a live one as well, so keep your eyes peeled on what could happen in the defensive situation over the next week or two.”
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AC Milan enter the frame
While Rangers retain a genuine footprint in negotiations, European heavyweights are beginning to test the waters for the French prospect.
Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport reported on Monday that Serie A giants AC Milan have registered their interest in the left-footed defender.
Standing at 6’3″, Diawara’s physical profile has caught the eye of the Rossoneri hierarchy, who view him as an ideal development candidate primarily for their Milan Futuro squad rather than an immediate first-team option.
The defensive picture at Rangers
Manager Derek McInnes remains eager to strengthen his central defensive core before the new domestic campaign kicks off.
With John Souttar edging closer to a move away from Ibrox, the Gers are in need of further options in central defence.
It has been widely reported that the Andrew Cavenagh-led club are keen to add a left-sided centre-back to their ranks this summer, and Diawara certainly fits the recruitment bill at Auchenhowie perfectly.
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While Makhanya remains a parallel option being monitored in MLS, Diawara’s balance as a natural left-sided operator gives him a significant edge.
Whether Rangers can outmanoeuvre AC Milan’s project proposition could prove decisive over the coming days.
It is worth noting that Diawara only has one year remaining on his existing contract at Troyes.
