On Thursday evening, the Rangers Youth Academy Twitter account confirmed that Serge Atakayi has left the club.
He joins Finnish top division side SJK Seinajoki on loan.
The 20-year-old forward has been capped multiple times by Finland at youth level.
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Atakayi moved to the Nordic country as a child. There, he worked up through the youth system at FF Jaro, playing 29 times for the first team before moving to JBK and then to Rangers in 2016.
He was handed a senior Gers debut by Steven Gerrard as a late substitute in the 7-1 win over Motherwell in November.
Now, he’s moved away to get minutes under his belt.
“Rangers saw this as the best solution for me”, Atakayi said, as quoted by the Daily Record.
“Steven Gerrard has told me he thinks I can play for the first team next season.
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“Many Finnish clubs wanted me. But, I think the style of football they play here is attractive and I can’t wait to play here.”
It’s great news that another young Ger has secured a loan move and a shot at regular football.
Judging by these quotes, the manager believes the young forward has a bright future at Ibrox. Therefore, let’s hope he impresses in the Veikkausliiga.
Here’s a selection of reactions from Bears to the transfer news:
https://twitter.com/ibrox_noise/status/1113899686954508289
