'Russell Martin to block Ben Davies transfer' as Rangers approach made
Ben Davies could potentially see Russell Martin scupper his hopes of a transfer from Rangers this summer.
The 29-year-old spent last season on loan at Birmingham City after failing to make a mark at the Gers.
The League One champions want Davies on a permanent transfer after his impressive campaign at the Blues.
Martin may have other ideas for the ex-Liverpool ace as the Glaswegian outfit play their first competitive game against Panathinaikos at home in the Champions League qualifier on 22 July.
Birmingham want bargain Davies transfer as Martin to wait for defensive reinforcements at Rangers
Birmingham have held preliminary talks to sign Davies permanently from the Gers, according to Birmingham World.
The news outlet reports (26 June) that the League One champions are hoping for a cut-price deal for the English centre-back as his contract at Ibrox expires in 2026.
It's been claimed that the English club have hit a stumbling block as Martin wants to inspect the 29-year-old defender during pre-season.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 44 | 1 | 1 |
The Glaswegian outfit are evidently short on options at the back, with Leon Balogun joining Aris Limassol after his contract expired.
John Souttar underwent surgery recently, and there will undoubtedly be concerns about his fitness heading into next season.
Martin has every right to potentially block Davies' transfer to Birmingham until he gets defensive reinforcements in the coming weeks, as he needs enough players available to face the Greek outfit soon.
Kevin Thelwell needs to expedite Coady transfer at Ibrox
Leicester City defender Conor Coady has been linked with a move to the Gers this summer, and Kevin Thelwell should look to expedite his transfer.
Rangers have begun pre-season training, and the new sporting director must aim to bring in as many players as possible before the Panathinaikos clash.
Robin Propper is also attracting interest from FC Twente, but even his return to the Eredivisie may be delayed due to an evident lack of depth in the Gers' defence.
The Light Blues must back Martin in the ongoing transfer window, as fans expect him to compete with Celtic immediately next season.
Davies should be kept at Ibrox until at least a couple of centre-backs are signed, and how the situation in G51 unfolds remains to be seen.
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