Rangers likely to announce Jose Cifuentes signing before clash v Kilmarnock
Rangers are likely to announce LAFC’s Jose Cifuentes before their opening clash against Kilmarnock, according to the Scottish Mail.
The newspaper reported in its print edition (3 August, pg 69) that the Ecuadorian will soon be the ninth summer addition at Ibrox, but Michael Beale has noted his need to become acclimatised to Glasgow after the £1.2million switch is complete.
Cifuentes is the latest addition to Beale’s Rangers rebuild following the signings of Abdallah Sima, Leon Balogun, Jack Butland, Kieran Dowell, Dujon Sterling, Sam Lammers, Cyriel Dessers and Danilo.
Finally
The LAFC forward has been edging closer and closer to his permanent £1.2million switch to Ibrox and now it looks as close as ever.
His potential inclusion in Rangers’ opening day of the Premiership on Saturday (5 August) could be a huge boost for Beale and a source of excitement for Gers, but he is unlikely to start.
Switching leagues can be difficult for any player, but adjusting to the tough nature of Scotland’s top division can be challenging especially compared to the MLS. Beale’s words of caution feel wise and Cifuentes will certainly make an impact if he meets his new manager’s expectations.
Beale claimed Cifuentes could take Rangers “to another level”, which should be music to the ears of the Ibrox faithful, especially considering how many other impactful players the club have signed this summer.
Considering his price, Cifuentes looks to be a genuine bargain for Rangers if he even comes close to Beale’s expectations of him.
But the Ecuadorian midfielder’s quality progressive play, with 8.10 progressive passes per 90 (94th percentile) and 2.59 progressive carries per 90 (94th percentile) [FBRef] shows that he could become an essential link between attack and defence.
However, he is unlikely to hit the ground running and could take a few weeks to settle into Scottish football having been recently playing in the MLS. He won’t be on the same pre-season routine as his new teammates and could take a little longer to become accustomed to Beale’s management style and tactics.
However, fans will be happy that the deal is finally close to completion.
In other Rangers news, an exit-bound Ibrox star’s six-figure move could be in “major doubt” following the latest training photos.