Rangers closed the transfer window in far from perfect place with Philippe Clement still short of quality in a few positions.
The forward line has been improved with the additions of Nedim Bajrami and Vaclav Cerny, but the lack of depth is still an issue.
The manager has an easy solution in recalling Ianis Hagi, a decision he has spoken about already, however, there is a reason why the 25-year old hasn’t been sold by Rangers.
- READ MORE: Rangers Net Transfer Spend Summer 2024
Rangers valuation of Ianis Hagi given as transfer hurdle cause
Giovanni Becali has been outspoken throughout the summer with Hagi having to take to social media to explain that he isn’t his agent or representative in any way.
This time, Becali has claimed that it is Rangers transfer fee demands that has blocked the Romania international’s exit, as reported by the Glasgow Times:
“Ianis’ problem is that Rangers have set a clause for him, 3.5 million Euros (around £3m).
“If a club comes in for him and pays it, he can leave Rangers.
“But the problem is Rangers aren’t giving him the opportunity so no one can watch him.
“He’s not even getting to sit on the bench, never mind playing.”
It is looking increasingly likely that Hagi will stay at Rangers.
Hagi deserves Rangers redemption after setting the standard
Since returning to Auchenhowie, he has been the model professional and a great example to other players who want to leave or who have been told they are surplus to requirements – take heed Todd Cantwell.
What he has also done, is reiterate, on more than one occasion, that he wants to force his way back into Philippe Clement’s plans:
“I am a Rangers player. I love the club. A lot was said about me. I said it in two very clear messages on Instagram. I just want to play football. In my short history as a footballer I have never disappointed anyone who had faith in me. They are facts, as Mircea (Lucescu – Romania’s manager) also trusted me.
“I was in constant communication with him, I did the physical training with the second team, even harder than with the first team. I have never let a man down who trusted me. I thanked those in the country who took an interest in me, I wish them the best of luck, but my fight is outside.”
What is worse – having a player on £22,000 per week who is an established international and fit sitting in the stands on a matchday, or being £6,000 per week out of pocket to play and established international?
Given the departure of Scott Wright on deadline day, even if the rumoured contract clause is true, Rangers won’t be out of pocket, they will still have cut the wage bill.
The fee set for Hagi, if it is around £3m, isn’t over the top.
It is what Rangers paid when he was signed in 2020 and is below market value for a player with his experience and record.
Put it another way, if Rangers were signing a player who had done similar at the Euros, fans would be more than happy.
