Rangers play waiting game after Jose Cifuentes LAFC twist
The wait for Los Angeles FC midfielder Jose Cifuentes to make the move to Rangers becomes more and more frustrating, especially after the Ecuadorian pulled on his LAFC shirt on Tuesday (4 July).
Cifuentes had recently been left out of Steve Cherundolo’s side, prompting speculation that his proposed move to Ibrox was set.
While reports have indicated that a deal has almost been reached [Daily Record, 4 July], the waiting game continues as Michael Beale’s side looks to secure yet another summer signing.
Frustration is understandable as Rangers have already started their pre-season preparations, with Adballah Sima and Sam Lammers among those already through the door.
Rangers fans will look forward to seeing the Ecuadorian in the Scottish Premiership, with the 24-year-old registering some impressive stats that could revitalise Rangers’ midfield.
Cifuentes is an adept ball carrier, making 7.69 progressive passes per 90 (91st percentile) and 2.47 progressive carries per 90 (91st percentile) [FBRef].
His goalscoring for a central midfielder is also significant, with 0.16 goals per 90 (90th percentile) showing him to be a dangerous attacking presence within the LA midfield.
Beale is also very keen on many additions this summer, with Cifuentes hopefully being the latest. In an interview with Rangers TV, Beale said: “Everyone felt we wanted new faces and freshness and we’ve got that.
“I’m pleased to say it won’t stop there – there’s maybe two or three more that we’re also looking to recruit over the summer.”
Such exciting stats for Cifuentes will just make Rangers fans want him sooner, and Beale’s comments show that he may not be the last. But the deal looks likely to come across the line, albeit a few bumps in the road are proving a nuisance.
In other Rangers news, new goalkeeper signing calls new role his ‘sole focus’.