By Sam Stone

19th May, 2023 | 2:10pm

Michael Beale shares update on Rangers move for LAFC midfielder Jose Cifuentes

Michael Beale has revealed that Jose Cifuentes is “not that close” to joining Rangers at the moment.

The Guardian’s Fabrizio Romano had claimed (via Twitter, 18 May) that the Gers were advancing in talks with the Ecuadorian and that all parties were confident of a deal being concluded “soon”.

However, speaking at his latest press conference, Beale has revealed that a move for the LAFC midfielder isn’t imminent.

“Says deal for Cifuntes is ‘not that close if I’m honest’,” relayed by the Heart and Hand Podcast (19 May).

Interesting

Usually when Romano Tweets something, it’s fairly credible. So it’s interesting to see the Rangers boss distance himself from the potential move.

Perhaps he doesn’t want to alert other clubs to the midfielder’s availability, which is common practice among managers. This will almost certainly not be the last we hear when it comes to the 24-year-old midfielder. It’s an area which certainly needs strengthening.

With Ryan Jack committing his future to the club, Glen Kamara and John Lundstram could well be wondering where they stand at present. Nicolas Raskin will almost certainly be one of Beale’s first choices, so room will have to be made for any new arrival.

There’s certainly reason to be excited for Gers fans, with a number of new players already being linked with a move to the club. Kieran Dowell, Jack Butland and Dujon Sterling all look set to be wearing the famous blue jersey come the start of next season.

In other Rangers news, one Gers ace will leave and likely move abroad because he isn’t getting enough game time to warrant staying, according to Peter Grant.