Rangers are poised for a frustrating end to their extensive search for a dynamic new right-back, as chief target Bryan Reynolds looks set to secure a move to France instead.
The Ibrox hierarchy have spent the last few weeks locked in a tense battle to sign the 25-year-old full-back from KVC Westerlo, with clubs in Belgium and France also keen on him.
Rangers have made it to the final lap of the transfer race for the United States international, going head-to-head with Stade Rennais for his signature.
Rangers News revealed last week that the Light Blues have made a second bid for Reynolds after having an initial £2.2million offer rejected, while Rennes’ last known proposal stands at £3.3 million.
Both clubs are awaiting a final decision from the former AS Roma defender in the coming days, with Westerlo braced to pocket £3.5-£4.3m.
What do you make of Bryan Reynolds joining Rangers?
He appears to be a clear upgrade on Dujon Sterling! 💪
Rennes poised to sign Bryan Reynolds for £3.5m
However, an authoritative update from influential French newspaper L’Equipe indicates that Rennes have pulled ahead in the race.
The report notes that a transfer package worth around €4m (£3.5m) is currently being worked on to take the United States international to France.
According to L’Equipe, Rennes are intentionally remodelling their squad ahead of a demanding domestic and European campaign.
Their management are explicitly targeting more athletic volume, character and tactical flexibility across their wider options.
Rather than walking straight into the starting XI as an undisputed first choice, Reynolds is reportedly being recruited to act as direct, high-quality competition for Polish wing-back Przemyslaw Frankowski.
Despite the prospect of a rotational squad role in France, the sheer economic pull and structural blueprint offered by the Ligue 1 club appear to have swayed the American away from Glasgow.
A four-man shortlist has been drawn up to replace James Tavernier…
We believe Hampus Skoglund is the ideal candidate. Let us know what you think!
Back to drawing board for Rangers
The news represents a major development for manager Derek McInnes.
Filling the gaping tactical void on the right side of the backline following James Tavernier’s high-profile summer departure remains an absolute priority for the new-look Rangers coaching staff.
However, Reynolds is not the only right-back the Gers have been targeting this summer, with Hampus Skoglund also on their shortlist.
Rangers News previously reported that the Ibrox club have had at least one meeting with Skoglund’s representatives to discuss a potential transfer.
