MLS side LAFC get a sour taste of life after Rangers-linked Jose Cifuentes after suffering defeat without the Ecuadorean in their matchday squad.
The 24-year-old midfielder was dropped entirely for the Californian club’s 2-0 defeat to FC Dallas which, coupled with Saint Louis’ 2-0 win over Colorado, sees them fall three points behind at the top of the Western Conference.
Jose Cifuentes has been a key player for LAFC in their MLS campaign so far, playing 15 times in total, but the situation has plenty wondering if a move to Rangers is now edging closer.
With LAFC holding major championship hopes this season losing Jose Cifuentes is clearly a major blow to their title ambitions and they will be hoping this is not a sour taste of things to come without the Ecuadorean.
There has been extensive reporting surrounding Rangers and a move for Jose Cifuentes all summer long with the latest suggesting the final hurdle to be cleared is a transfer fee to be agreed between the clubs.
Jose Cifuentes dropped by LAFC amid Rangers reports
With Jose Cifuentes now out of the LAFC team it would suggest that the negotiations have reached a critical stage as Rangers continue to improve their squad this summer.
Asked about the player’s absence after the match, LAFC boss Steve Cherundolo failed to confirm if Rangers were at the centre of Cifuentes being dropped, putting the situation down to “loading purposes”, whatever that means.
“I believe we covered that in our injury status report,” said Cherundolo. “It was just loading purposes.”
Rangers have been very busy in the transfer window as things stand and according to the latest reports the club is closing in on a deal for Nigerian international striker Cyriel Dessers to become the sixth signing of the window.
The Gers have already completed pre-contract deals for Kieran Dowell, Dujon Sterling and Jack Butland, whilst Michael Beale has also added Sam Lammers and Abdallah Sima (loan) ahead of next season.
Boasting substantial international pedigree, Jose Cifuentes would be regarded as a major addition to the Rangers squad and after being dropped by LAFC, fans will have one eye on any progress on the deal this week.
