How Nils Koppen could haunt Rangers as new Connor Barron exit path opens up

Rangers midfielder Connor Barron continues to attract interest as West Ham United join the race for his signature.

Barron has already been linked with Bologna, which is ironically the home of Gers target Lewis Ferguson.

The Scotland international has made 83 appearances for Rangers since joining two years ago.

He remains under contract at Ibrox until 2028, meaning Rangers are in no rush to sell.

However, growing interest - including now from south of the border - could alter that stance.

And it may be that Nils Koppen, formerly of Rangers, plays a part in any deal.

Bologna a step ahead of West Ham in Connor Barron pursuit

Derek McInnes previously worked with Barron at Aberdeen, where the midfielder made a name for himself.

Speaking in 2022, interim Dons boss Barry Robson hailed Barron as an "outstanding" talent.

While it is true the 23-year-old has not pushed on as much as would have been liked, McInnes will be eager to keep the player on board.

According to a report from Hayters on Friday afternoon, West Ham are the latest side to be showing an interest in his services.

West Ham are said to have eyed Barron as a possible replacement for Mateus Fernandes, who recently joined Tottenham for £85million.

Bologna are a step further as they are said to have already made contact over a deal for Barron, who impressed under Danny Rohl's tenure.

For Rangers' part, they are reluctant to lose the player.

West Ham's transfer business is now overseen by Koppen, who previously worked as Rangers' technical director for six months prior to leaving a year ago.

Could Nils Koppen be behind Barron interest?

While the report does not say as much, it seems a massive coincidence that days after Koppen was hired by West Ham, they are interested in Barron.

Koppen was not around at Ibrox for long, but he was the man at the helm when Barron arrived in Glasgow.

Barron's contract had expired at Aberdeen, but there was still a wrangle with the Dons over a compensation fee for their academy talent.

It begs the question of who else Koppen could flag as a possible target at West Ham, who have the money to back up any interest.