Rangers are already facing a big battle trying to sign Nathaniel Adjei in January with Chanmpionship trio Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Leeds United joining the race for Hammarby’s £3.5 million-rated centre-back.
If the 21-year-old’s head has been turned by the sudden swell of speculation, then he certainly didn’t show it. Nathaniel Adjei went about his business with typical composure and focus during Saturday’s goalless draw away at Varnamo, helping keep a clean sheet while further enhancing his growing reputation ahead of what is already shaping up to be a fierce battle for his signature in the winter window.
According to Sky Sports, and backed up by The Sun, Rangers scouted Adjei recently. As did Old Firm rivals Celtic.
Rangers face big Nathaniel Adjei battle
South of the border, Preston North End, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Leeds United are also in pursuit of the towering, Ghana U23 international (Futbol Direkt). Hammerby will demand a minimum of £3.5 million – plus a considerable re-sale clause – and it remains to be seen whether Rangers can compete financially with, for example, a deep-pocketed Leeds side challenging for an immediate return to the Premier League.
Rangers are reportedly ready to back new head coach Philippe Clement in January. But their spending power is likely to be restricted following a summer of big-money acquisitions. What’s more, Rangers are understood to be prioritising a goalscorer, potentially limiting the funds at Clement’s disposal for a centre-half.
Rangers already have Connor Goldson, John Souttar, Ben Davies, Leon Balogun and Leon King as their defensive options, while John Lundstram can also fill in at the back if required.
‘A top-notch football player’
“(Adjei) will develop into a top-notch defender, in my opinion,” says former Hammarby head coach and now Queens Park Rangers boss Marti Cifuentes (GhanaSoccerNet).
“We know the talent we have on our hands because he has displayed glimpses of being a top-notch football player.”
