Ryan Kent could be about to sign on at a new club in Iran after the ex-Rangers winger was sold on the move because of his pet crocodiles.
In a remarkable story coming out of Turkey, it’s claimed Ryan Kent’s obsession with exotic pets has taken a fresh twist as a link-up with former Fenerbahce Ismail Kartal beckons.
Kartal is currently in charge of Iranian side Persepolis and according to Turkish outlet AS Marca, the manager has reached an ‘agreement’ with Ryan Kent to join him in the Middle East.
But it’s not just the prospect of playing and living in Tehran which has ‘convinced’ the ex-Rangers winger, with the country’s laws on keeping pet crocodiles also playing a key role!
Ryan Kent reaches Iran ‘agreement’ over crocodiles
AS Marca are reporting that Persepolis and Ismail Kartal have struck an ‘agreement’ to bring Ryan Kent to Iran.
With Kartal also targeting another former player in Serdar Dursun, the former Fenerbahce coach is utilising his connections to strengthen the Persepolis squad.
But remarkably, the report claims that former Ibrox winger Ryan Kent has agreed to the proposal because he will be allowed to keep pet crocodiles at his home!
Translated the AS Marca report reads:
“Persepolis, coached by Ismail Kartal, has reached an agreement with former Fenerbahce star Ryan Kent.
“The fact that it is legal to keep crocodiles at home in Iran was the factor that convinced Kent.
“Thus, Ismail Kartal will work with his two former students, Serdar Dursun and Kent, again.”
Ex-Rangers star Ryan Kent and his pet crocodiles
Ryan Kent has always had a touch of the exotic and was famous during his time at Rangers for keeping pet snakes.
James Tavernier even once revealed ex-Rangers winger Kent purchased one of his teammate’s a pet snake as a Secret Santa present!
This led to the festive practice actually being banned at Auchenhowie as a result.
Remarkably, Ryan Kent does also keep pet crocodiles and back in November 2024 the Scottish Sun reported that the winger was advertising for a keeper to look after them.
This was after Kent had his Fenerbahce contract ripped by and returned to the UK.
Whilst we’ve previously mused about a potential Ryan Kent return to Rangers, it certainly appears like the winger has other priorities on his mind.
Given the history of Ryan Kent in Turkey and his known hobby of keeping exotic pets, talk of a move to Persepolis might well have some substance.
