How Rangers are back in race for Joe Gelhardt as last-gasp steal now on the cards

Rangers are making a late push to sign Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt.

The sudden move comes after the Bears learned of the severity of Youssef Chermiti's injury, which has now been revealed to be an ACL issue.

Derek McInnes has now requested that the Light Blues' recruitment team search the market for a new number nine following the news on the 22-year-old, who could miss the rest of the season.

The Gers were interested in Gelhardt in January, but the forward was keen to see out his loan deal with Hull City, eventually helping the Tigers get promoted the Premier League.

The 24-year-old looks set to leave Elland Road this summer, with no way into Daniel Farke's plans despite a stellar season at the MKM Stadium last campaign.

Hull are keen to bring Gelhardt back, but Rangers have now thrown themselves into the mix for the versatile forward.

How Rangers are making last-ditch move for Joe Gelhardt

Rangers have kept a close eye on Gelhardt this summer after registering their interest in the forward in previous transfer windows.

However, they have a new battle on their hands for the Englishman, who is wanted by both Wrexham and Hull City.

According to Football Insider's transfer correspondent, Pete O'Rourke, Rangers are making a late attempt to win the race for Gelhardt.

Hull boss Sergej Jakirovic has stated this week that it is only a matter of time before the player returns to the Tigers, but not if the Bears have anything to say about it.

McInnes has admitted that Rangers are willing to explore the loan market, as well as making further permanent signings, with a another striker now wanted at Ibrox.

But signing Gelhardt would not come at a low price for Andrew Cavenagh.

Rangers need a "lot of cash" for Gelhardt

There have been suggestions that Hull are willing to pay around £4million to sign Gelhardt on a permanent deal.

However, it's not known what Leeds' set price is for the striker, who scored 15 goals in all competitions last season.

Alan Nixon reported on his Patreon this Tuesday that a "lot of cash" will be needed to sign Gelhardt, who is attracting interest from plenty of clubs in the UK.

The 49ers have shown that they are happy to spend the money if they believe it will help Rangers moving forward, so finances may not be an issue with this transfer.