Ridvan Yilmaz at centre of ‘Surprise’ development as Rangers exit update shared
Rangers star Ridvan Yilmaz has been the subject of speculation linking him with an Ibrox exit throughout the winter transfer window.
The 23-year-old was spotted in Istanbul just hours before he missed out on the 3-1 win against Dundee United (26 January), which only served to increase the rumours that he was set to leave the Govan club.
However, Yilmaz is under contract with the Light Blues until 2027 and manager Philippe Clement has rubbished the speculation.
The Turkish international has made 21 appearances for the Bears so far this season, mostly as a makeshift right-back or left midfielder.
Galatasaray abandon Rangers Yilmaz pursuit
A report from Turkish outlet Sabah Spor (11 February) claims that Galatasaray have given up their pursuit of the Gers star due to “injury problems.”
The Istanbul-based club, who have won the Turkish Super Lig 24 times, are now targeting Alanyaspor’s Yusuf Ozdemir in a “surprise” move, according to the report.
It looks like Yilmaz is set to stay on Govan until the end of the season at least with the transfer window closing in Turkey on 11 February.
Ridvan Yilmaz can kickstart Rangers career
The seven-cap Turkey international has found himself behind Jefte in the pecking order under Clement this season.
However, after the Brazilian’s poor defensive performance in the shocking 1-0 Scottish FA Cup loss to Queen’s Park (9 February), Yilmaz could force his way into a starting spot if he continues to impress when given a chance.
Right now, he may have to settle for a makeshift role but that could change if Chelsea renew their interest in Jefte in the summer.
His position could also be affected by a decision on Clement’s future in the dugout, with pressure beginning to crank up on the Belgian after the embarrassing defeat to lower-league opposition.
One thing is certain, the Gers clearly see the Turkish star as a valuable asset given their reluctance to sell and the versatility that he offers to the squad by featuring in multiple roles that are not his natural position.
He could emerge as a rare positive from a dismal season for the Ibrox club if he can make an impact in the second half of the campaign.