Besiktas are set to begin negotiations with Rangers over a deal for Youssef Chermiti, and the transfer formula they are planning to use has now been revealed.
The Turkish giants are actively building a squad capable of challenging for the Super Lig title next season, and their search for a striker to complement Hyeun-gyu Oh has led them to Glasgow.
Chermiti has emerged as their primary target in that position, and according to Turkish outlet Fotomac, Besiktas are ready to begin formal negotiations with Rangers.
The development will come as a surprise to many Gers supporters, given the 22-year-old’s remarkable turnaround at Ibrox after a difficult start to life in Scotland.
Would Rangers have won the league if they signed Lawrence Shankland instead of Youssef Chermiti?
Loan formula revealed as Besiktas plot Chermiti raid
According to Fotomac, Besiktas plan to pursue Chermiti on a loan basis rather than a permanent transfer, as they plot a formula that would allow them to assess the striker’s suitability for their system without committing to Rangers’ asking price.
The Black Eagles’ interest is rooted in Chermiti’s physical profile, with his strong physique, aerial prowess and potential for development catching the eye of their hierarchy, who believe he fits precisely the mould of striker they need.
For Rangers, the loan formula makes no sense, as there is no incentive for them to let him leave temporarily.
Chermiti finished the season as one of the club’s most improved performers, scoring two hat-tricks, including a stunning volley against Falkirk, and represents exactly the kind of asset the club should be building around instead of shipping out.
Which of these strikers are Rangers expected to sell?
Lawrence Shankland's arrival will surely change things!
Should Rangers entertain the offer?
The short and only answer is no. Chermiti is 22, improving rapidly, and has just demonstrated he can deliver at the highest level of Scottish football on the biggest occasions.
Allowing him to leave on loan risks disrupting the momentum he has built and handing a rival the benefit of his continued development.
It is also worth noting that the Ibrox club rejected a £13million offer from Fenerbahce in the January transfer window, less than six months after they signed him from Everton for £8m.
Rangers paid a significant amount of money for a project, and that project is now delivering.
Walking away from it now, even temporarily, would be a significant mistake.
