Aston Villa agree Lino Sousa transfer as Rangers wanted Arsenal player

Aston Villa have won the race to Arsenal full-back Lino Sousa during the January transfer window, despite interest from Rangers, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist reported via his X account on Wednesday (31 January) that the Light Blues were one of several clubs interested in the 19-year-old defender, but he is now set to complete a medical ahead of a permanent move to Villa Park.

Galatasaray and Juventus joined Philippe Clement's side in holding an interest in the teenager, however, Unai Emery's side have managed to come out on top and secure the full-back's signature.

Bit of a blow

Rangers need a new fullback during the January transfer window and while Sousa is a relatively unproven option, he could have been a real difference-maker at Ibrox had the Gers managed to win the race to sign him this month.

The teenager is yet to make a competitive senior appearance but has been named on the Gunners' bench in the FA Cup and Champions League this season, which would suggest that he is incredibly highly thought of at the Emirates.

While Rangers supporters will be disappointed to learn that they have missed out on a target this month, it should be encouraging to fans that the Gers are recruiting in similar circles to the likes of Juventus, Villa and Galatasaray as it shows the standard of player Clement is eyeing.

Hopefully, the Light Blues will be able to get a couple more bits of business done before Thursday (1 February) night's deadline to set themselves up for the remainder of the season.

In other Rangers news, a new injury update has emerged in the Gers' pursuit of Oscar Cortes at Ibrox

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