Club chief reacts to ‘amazing’ Fashion Sakala Rangers exit links
St Pauli sporting director Andreas Bornemann has played down links to Rangers forward Fashion Sakala.
The Bundesliga 2 side were reportedly interested in the Zambian, who came to the fore under Michael Beale in 2023.
However, speaking to Football Scotland, Bornemann has shut down any move for the 26-year-old.
“Speculation is part of the game. There is a lot going on in the football rumour mill these days,” he said (17 June).
“It’s amazing what’s supposedly going on! In fact, we’ve had a few wild topics recently.
“For example, just because we had previously looked to the UK for Jackson Irvine and Oladapo Afolayan, people now suspect links there more often.
“It’s true that during this period, agents increasingly contact us and offer us players, but we prefer to search ourselves.”
Nothing in it
It’s clear the rumours linked Sakala with an exit are fairly far-fetched.
He enjoyed an excellent return to form under Beale and could be a key player for the upcoming 2023/24 season.
The Zambian’s pace and direct running are unique within the Gers’ current squad. Let’s face it, electric pace is a rare commodity in the modern game.
Even off the bench, Sakala will be a threat for Beale’s men. In fact, the Rangers boss could even look to add another speedster to his ranks for the new campaign.
Rabbi Matondo is another with electric pace but has struggled since completing his summer 2022 move to Ibrox. The Welshman could actually be one of the players to depart if Beale’s wishes do come true.
He was a big-money arrival and has been largely disappointing. Looking elsewhere could well be a smart move from the board.
Considering how many players have already come through the door, exits will have to happen to balance the books.
In other Rangers news, another Ibrox veteran is considered almost certain to leave this summer now amid a clear verdict of “he’s away”.