£5m transfer twist emerges as Rangers set sights on signing FC Twente ace Gijs Smal at Ibrox
Rangers could target a bargain transfer for full-back Gijs Smal after hopes of signing Josh Doig were slashed by Torino, according to The Sun.
The newspaper reported via its website [7 January] that the Gers could sign FC Twente’s Smal in the summer once his contract expires, as target Doig closes in on a £3.5million plus add-ons move to Serie A outlet Torino.
It is understood that Celtic were interested in the Dutch defender last summer, looking at a £5million price tag but, having not signed a contract extension, could leave for Twente for nothing.
It’s not all doom and gloom
Philippe Clement has expressed his desire to add another left-back to the current Rangers squad, with Ridvan Yilmaz nearing a move away from Ibrox and Borna Barisic’s current deal expiring at the end of the season.
Nicknamed “Smaldini”, the newest transfer target has made 104 appearances for FC Twente, scoring four goals from left-back, having joined from FC Voldendam in 2020.
Clement will be extremely disappointed not to land the signing of Doig, who was voted Scotland’s Young Player of the Year in 2021 before moving to Hella Verona in the summer and making 35 appearances, scoring twice.
The 21-year-old was called up to the Scotland senior squad after injuries to Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney and Aaron Hickey but is yet to be handed his international debut.
However, Rangers may have to forget about the Scottish prospect, with a move to Torino looking the most likely. Smal is still a decent target, though, who could cost the Gers nothing if they are to wait until summer.
If Clement cannot wait that long, FC Twente may allow the 26-year-old to leave on a cheap deal during the January transfer window rather than keep him until the end of the season and receive no transfer fee.
In other Rangers news, both the Light Blues and Celtic are reportedly watching the next Moises Caicedo this January.