Rangers could be handed boost in Jonathan Panzo transfer from Nottingham Forest
Rangers’ pursuit of Nottingham Forest defender Jonathan Panzo could be given a huge boost if the English side can complete their deal for a new centre-back.
Forest have been in the market for defensive reinforcements, and were suggested to be leading the race for Strasbourg centre-back Alexander Djiku [L’Equipe, 9 July] although they face stiff competition from Fenerbahce and potentially Villarreal.
If they can get this deal over the line, it should then free up Panzo to take the necessary steps towards a deal with Michael Beale’s Rangers side, as the manager is reportedly a big fan of his. Forest’s move for Djiku is not needed for this other transfer to take place, but it would certainly help the process.
Everything could fall into place
It was reported by Football Scotland [7 July] that Rangers are closing in on a deal to bring Panzo to Ibrox, and should Forest complete a deal for their target, it is likely to speed up the process as they won’t have to worry about replacing the defender.
Panzo would be a fantastic addition to this Rangers side as Beale looks to make his mark on the team, as the English manager is a big admirer of the defender.
Rangers have been looking to add depth throughout their squad, after making six signings already this summer and countless rumours of further signings continue to swirl.
Other central defenders Rangers have been linked with include Bobby Thomas from Burnley, Wolves defender Dion Sanderson who spent last season on loan at Birmingham City, and Leeds United centre-back Charlie Cresswell, who has just won the European U21 Championships with England.
It appears that despite the other names being linked, Rangers and Beale have identified Panzo as their chief target for the defensive positions.
In other Rangers news, a journalist has named four players he thinks could leave Ibrox this summer.