Rangers have hit a brick wall in their pursuit of highly-rated Troyes centre-back Sankhoun Diawara this summer, prompting the Ibrox board to swiftly pivot to alternative defensive targets.
The Light Blues have been aggressively rebuilding their backline under newly appointed manager Derek McInnes.
Having already completed the notable acquisition of Ben Godfrey on a season-long loan from Atalanta, McInnes has turned his attention towards signing a left-sided centre-back to complete his defensive overhaul.
Among those on that list is Diawara. Chris Jack reported earlier this month that Rangers were in active negotiations to sign the France Under-19 international.
However, according to an update from French outlet Foot Mercato, the proposed transfer has collapsed.
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Why Sankhoun Diawara to Rangers transfer stalled
Diawara enjoyed an exceptional breakthrough campaign with Troyes, playing a vital role as his long-term club clinched the Ligue 2 title and secured promotion back to France’s top flight.
Rangers were seemingly confident of exploiting the 20-year-old’s contract situation after he entered the final year of his existing deal, but negotiations have suddenly run aground.
With Diawara contracted to Stade de I’Aube until June 2027, Troyes appear to have dug their heels in over the valuation, forcing Rangers to abandon active talks and search elsewhere.
The exact details about why a transfer to Ibrox is no longer on the cards for the Paris-born centre-back remains to be seen.
Gers pivot to Olwethu Makhanya
Rather than waiting around, Rangers have wasted no time initiating their backup plan.
Foot Mercato reveals that the hierarchy have quickly turned their attention to South Africa international Olwethu Makhanya.
The 22-year-old centre-back has earned rave reviews for his performances in the MLS with Philadelphia Union, establishing himself as one of the most physically dominating young defenders in the league.
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While Makhanya presents an exciting alternative, bringing him to Ibrox will not be straightforward.
As Rangers News covered, Philadelphia Union have already knocked back four separate bids for the Bafana Bafana defender, including a £3million offer from a top Belgian club, leaving the player devastated as his representatives push for an exit.
With Godfrey already integrated into the squad to provide elite top-flight experience, adding a dynamic young player like Makhanya would represent a significant statement of intent.
However, with the Diawara deal dead in the water, Rangers must now navigate a tricky MLS negotiation if they are to land their primary defensive alternative before the window slams shut.
