As Rangers were linked with a move for Ecuadorean international midfielder Jose Cifuentes, excited supporters would’ve tempered expectations given the mention of Leeds Utd.
The Gers are set for a big summer under Michael Beale and given the goalscoring profile of LAFC star Jose Cifuentes – and the potential bargain basement nature of a pre-contract switch – you’ll forgive fans for getting carried away.
Rangers links to Jose Cifuentes first appeared via US journalist Tom Bogert and since then fans across the globe have been watching YouTube compilations of the Ecuador World Cup star.
But Rangers aren’t the only ones said to be interested, with the mention of Premier League Leeds Utd and La Liga Espanyol giving the Ibrox side’s supporters food for thought. Cifuentes was even once linked to Celtic.
Jose Cifuentes: Leeds Utd Premier League fate could decide Rangers links
Leeds Utd and the promise of the Premier League is an attractive lure given both the prestige and the millions involved and to a South American player perhaps it would be too strong for Rangers.
Espanyol – albeit sizeably smaller than both Rangers and Leeds Utd – also offer Jose Cifuentes a move where he can speak his native Spanish.
That said, the 24-year-old can speak English and perhaps a move to one of UK football’s biggest institutions in either Rangers or Leeds Utd genuinely appeals to the midfielder.
But if it is to be Rangers and Leeds who go to head-to-head for Cifuentes, the Ibrox side’s success could be dependent on what happens with at Elland Road this season.
Amid links to Jose Cifuentes, Leeds Utd are 16th in the Premier League having sacked Jesse Marsch and tasking Javi Gracia with saving their skin this season.
The Spanish manager is another lure on Leeds’ baited hook when it comes to the midfielder, but if they cannot retain their Premier League status perhaps a shot at glory with Rangers becomes a more attractive bite.
