Who is Karl Etta Eyong? Rangers make move to sign striker
Karl Etta Eyong is among those linked with a move to Rangers ahead of the transfer deadline.
The Ibrox outfit most recently signed Jayden Meghoma, taking their new signings count to 10 this summer.
However, Russell Martin still wants more players at Rangers, given his side’s disastrous start to the season.
Karl Etta Eyong impressed in pre-season for Villarreal
The 21-year-old is currently plying his trade at Villarreal and even found the back of the net in their opening La Liga game against Real Oviedo.
Born on 14 October 2003, in Douala, Cameroon, Eyong has shown remarkable promise, blending pace, technical skill and a keen eye for goal.
Rangers have already made a loan offer to Villarreal, but they’re unwilling to sanction a temporary move.
According to Africa Foot on 20 August, it will take more than £4.3million to bring the striker to Ibrox and talks are ongoing between the two clubs.
His youth career began to flourish at Cadiz B, where he made 46 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing two assists.
A move to Villarreal’s B team saw him elevate his game, netting an impressive 19 goals in 30 appearances, alongside six assists, highlighting his predatory instincts.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Cadiz B | 46 | 14 | 2 |
| Villarreal CF B | 30 | 19 | 6 |
| Villarreal | 5 | 2 | – |
| Cadiz CF | 2 | – | – |
His senior debut for Villarreal came in 2024 and he’s scored two goals in five games for them, while a brief spell at Cadiz added two appearances to his resume.
Eyong’s pre-season form, where he topped Villarreal’s scoring charts with three goals, has caught the attention of scouts, despite uncertainty over his first-team role due to fierce competition.
Rangers will need to guarantee Karl Etta Eyong regular game time
Rangers’ interest in Eyong stems from their ambition to reclaim the Scottish Premiership title under manager Martin.
His goal-scoring record, particularly his 19 goals in 30 games for Villarreal B, suggests he could address Rangers’ need for a clinical finisher beyond Cyriel Dessers.
With Jefte’s £6.5million sale freeing up funds, the hierarchy may see Eyong as a long-term investment to bolster their attack, but they will need to guarantee him regular playing time to convince him to join.
His youth and potential for growth, combined with Gers’ history of developing talents like Calvin Bassey and Hamza Igamane, make him an attractive target.
Moreover, Eyong’s hunger for regular game time, amid Villarreal’s crowded squad, could see him thrive at Ibrox, where Martin’s coaching could unlock his full potential in a competitive league environment.
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