Ridvan Yilmaz exit: Rangers consider loan deal after £5m update

Rangers are considering a loan exit for Ridvan Yilmaz amid interest from Besiktas in the winter transfer window, according to Yenicag Gazetesi.

The news outlet reports (8 January) that the Light Blues are willing to let go of their left-back in January.

A departure is said to be almost certain for the Turkiye international, with the Gers valuing the defender at £5million.

Rangers can’t sanction Ridvan Yilmaz Besiktas transfer

Yilmaz signed for the Glaswegian outfit in the summer of 2022 from Besiktas but has lost his place in the starting line-up after Jefte’s arrival.

The Turkish national’s minutes this season have been limited, with Philippe Clement preferring other options in the backline until recent injury issues elsewhere.

While it would seem sensible to sanction the 23-year-old’s move, the Light Blues shouldn’t do so in the coming weeks.

Rangers have been hit with an injury crisis in their defence, with John Souttar, Leon Balogun, Neraysho Kasanwirjo and James Tavernier have all been on the sidelines in recent weeks.

Rangers captain James Tavernier
Credit: Imago

Yilmaz has unexpectedly started on the right-hand side of the defence in the absence of the club captain, putting in solid performances against Celtic and Hibernian.

As things stand, the Bears can’t afford to lose any more of their defenders, and Besiktas will seemingly need to wait until the summer to approach their former star.

While the Light Blues look to be out of the race for the Scottish Premiership title, they’re still alive in the Europa League and have the Scottish Cup to play for.

While Yilmaz might not be the first name on the teamsheet, his presence in the squad for the rest of the season will be imperative.

In other Rangers news, a repeat could happen at Ibrox with Vaclav Cerny’s transfer.

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