Rangers transfer news as development emerges on new defender
Rangers may face a hitch in their potential loan pursuit of Marseille defender Bamo Meite, according to Glasgow Times.
The news outlet reported on 6 January that while Gers are keen on signing the 23-year-old Ivorian on loan [Saber Desfarges, 5 January], his injury may complicate matters further.
While Philippe Clement is keen on reinforcements this month, Marseille boss Roberto de Zerbi has claimed that Meite may be ruled out for several weeks.
He said: “Bamo Meite was not on the bench because of a foot problem.
“Meite was inured yesterday too. It’s fairly serious. It could be weeks before he returns.”
Rangers may still take a gamble on Bamo Meite
While Gers’ interest in signing Meite on loan is clear, the defender’s recent injury could delay any potential deal.
As he’s out for weeks, if Rangers proceed with the loan, they might not see the 23-year-old in action until February at the earliest.
However, if Philippe Clement and the scouting team are convinced of the Ivorian’s ability to make an immediate impact once he recovers, the deal could still be pursued.
The key factor will be Clement’s willingness to wait out Meite’s recovery period, betting on his future contributions to outweigh the initial absence.
Given Gers’ need for defensive reinforcements, if the club see long-term value in Meite’s talents via an obligation to buy and potential, this transfer could still go ahead despite the current setback.
Only time will tell if Nils Koppen can present better alternatives for the club to sign this month.
It is imperative that the club bring in a defender before the transfer window closes.
In other Rangers news, a ‘Highly-rated’ defender has been spotted wearing the club’s jersey after he joined Nils Koppen’s ex club in the summer.
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