A Voetbal Nieuws report has suggested that Rangers are interested in Royal Antwerp winger Manuel Benson, who is a former teammate of Ianis Hagi.
Widespread reports have indicated that the Gers have agreed the signing of Hagi from Genk in a deal worth around £3 million plus add-ons [Glasgow Times].
The Gers might not be done in Belgium just yet, though.
Voetbal Nieuws corroborate a recent TEAMtalk report by claiming that Ross Wilson and co. are interested in Zulte Waregem striker Saido Berahino.
The report then goes on to claim that Manuel Benson is also on the club’s wishlist.
MORE RANGERS STORIES
The 23-year-old winger turned out alongside Ianis Hagi at Genk at the start of last season before moving to Royal Antwerp for what was a club-record fee in the region of €3 million.
Since then, he has turned out 16 times in all competitions – often as a substitute – scoring once and registering two assists.
It’s suggested that it will be difficult to prize the player away from Antwerp, though, as newly appointed manager Ivan Leko sees him playing a more important role next season.
Verdict
A number of wide players including Sheyi Ojo, Ryan Kent, Jordan Jones and Jake Hastie were brought into the club last summer but while Kent netted some big goals, none of those named made the impact many had hoped for.
Benson didn’t have a great season either, though, and while he racked up much better numbers during a loan spell at Royal Excel Mouscron the during the 2018/19 campaign, there’s little to suggest he’d light up the Premiership.
Given that the ex-Belgium youth international is contracted to Antwerp until 2023 and is said to be in the manager’s plans, Rangers would likely have to pay a significant fee to secure his services, making this one unlikely.
It’s interesting to see the link to Saido Berahino resurface but that’s also the kind of transfer many Bears will want to avoid.
The ex-West Brom and Stoke City striker enjoyed a relatively productive season with Zulte Waregem but has had well-documented form and attitude issues in the past, meaning any move for him would be a big risk.
While you’re here, why not check out our Big Transfer Window Preview over on our YouTube channel.