Scottish League One manager makes Ryan Porteous to Rangers transfer claim
Rangers are could be signing Ryan Porteous with the Hibernian defender set to leave Easter Road, according to Clyde manager, Jim Duffy.
Hibernian confirmed (26 November) the 23-year-old had turned down a “highly-improved” offer, with a January departure now likely.
Duffy has suggested that the defender could well be heading to Ibrox, with Stoke City, Luton and Sheffield Wednesday all reportedly interested (Daily Record, 10 December).
“Not to throw cold water on Davie’s suggestion (a potential move to Celtic) because I agree with it, but I have heard that there is a little bit of a suggestion that he could be going across the road to their greatest rivals,” said Duffy (Clyde Superscoreboard, 31:51, 5 December)
“So, I have heard that, whether there’s that much in it but that’s something that’s in the air.”
Could happen
After the appointment of Michael Beale, this is a move which could well happen. James Sands’ future at Ibrox is uncertain, and bringing in another young, Scottish central defender wouldn’t be a bad move from the club. Leon King has broken through this season, but at 18, he shouldn’t be expected to be the Gers’ main man defensively.
Furthermore, Porteous’ contract situation means he would be a low-risk signing for whoever eventually lands the defender. At 23, there’s plenty of time for him to develop during his time at the club. The Championship interest in Porteous could well come as a concern, with there being plenty of financial muscle south of the border, even in the second tier.
It’s hard to assess how much substance Duffy’s claim does have, but considering he’s a manager who is currently in the loop, it would be a surprise if Rangers weren’t interested in Porteous. This could well be one to keep an eye on for the Ibrox faithful.
In other Rangers news, the club are risking losing a multi-million pound windfall as senior ace considers 2023 exit