How Rangers view Ibrahima Balde transfer as rival bidders circle
Ibrahima Balde continues to be linked with a move to Rangers before the end of the transfer window.
The Gers are keen to add another striker to their ranks before Thursday's transfer deadline in the Scottish Premiership.
Rangers' need for more firepower was exacerbated at the start of this month when Youssef Chermiti suffered a serious knee injury.
The Portuguese striker suffered an ACL injury that could end his season, and left Derek McInnes light up top.
Rodez AF forward Balde is a name that has appeared on the radar, and a new report has shared how Rangers view a transfer amid interest from elsewhere.
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What's the latest with Rangers and Ibrahima Balde?
Balde has started the season fire for Rodez in France's Ligue 2, to put himself in the shop window for a late move in the market.
The 23-year-old has scored five goals in just four matches to sit top of the goalscoring charts, which has caught the eye of several teams.
Indeed, Foot Mercato has now given an update on the teams tracking Balde, including Rangers.
The French publication says Rangers have made enquiries over the availability of Balde as they look to add another striker.
However, they say that Balde is not their first choice option as things stand, with others in the race.
Foot Mercato says that Ligue 1 outfit Nice appreciate Balde and are monitoring the situation of the Frenchman whose contract runs until 2028.
They added that there is also a third club tracking Balde, but as yet the identity of that team is unknown.
How likely are Rangers to sign Ibrahima Balde?
As things stand, it does feel like Balde is somewhat of a back-up option for Rangers if other targets are not landed.
It has previously been reported that Rangers would need to pay £2.5million to land Balde.
But right now it looks more likely Rangers will push to complete the signing of Kevin Kelsy from Portland Timbers.
Kelsy has been linked with a switch to Ibrox over the past couple of weeks, and it is increasingly likely he makes the move to Glasgow.
Rangers' hierarchy has been criticised for a scattergun transfer window, and they absolutely must get this one right because goals looks a real issue right now.