Gheorghe Popescu claims he is ‘convinced’ Hagi will join Rangers permanently
The chairman of Ianis Hagi’s former club FC Viitorul has claimed that he is “convinced” the playmaker will join Rangers on a permanent basis this summer.
The 21-year-old arrived on loan from Genk in January, and is understood to have an option-to-buy clause worth around £4 million written into his contract at Ibrox.
The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has cast some doubt over whether or not a deal will go ahead, however, with sporting director Ross Wilson admitting that the global health crisis has complicated matters.
But Gheorghe Popescu, an important figure at Hagi’s first senior club, has reassured fans that a deal is still very much in the pipeline.
Speaking to Gazeta Sporturilor, he said: “Certain contractual terms will probably be renegotiated between the two clubs, but I am convinced that this transfer will be made.
“Rangers want him very, very much.
“Ianis really wants to stay in Glasgow, because he has adjusted very well, he is very appreciated, he has a very good chemistry with the coach, with his colleagues, the team management.
“He started and played very well in these matches, until the beginning of the pandemic. He wants to stay there and I think that will happen no matter what offers he has. Rangers is the number one option.”
What does this mean for Rangers?
If it is true, then it’s a wonderful update for the Gers.
Hagi may only have played 10 games for Steven Gerrard’s men this term, but he has made quite the impression during his short spell at Ibrox.
As well as notching three goals and two assists, he has also registered a dribble success rate of 58.1%, and 3.32 accurate crosses per game, as per Wyscout.
As a point of reference, Ryan Kent’s equivalent figures are 54.1% and 2.63 this season.
Crucially, it sounds as if the player is keen on a move too.
Popescu’s comments echo recent insights from former Romanian international coach Victor Piturca, who told the Daily Record that his young compatriot faces a “disaster” if he does not complete a move to Glasgow this summer.
Of course, Ross Wilson’s own input means that things must be tempered with caution, but it does feel as if there are reasons to be optimistic.
In other Rangers news, Douglas Park claims £10 million Rangers investment gap has been filled.