Rangers backed to seal 'incredible' Lewis Ferguson transfer - here's how
Rangers continue to pursue an audacious swoop to bring Lewis Ferguson back to the Scottish Premiership.
The 27-cap Scotland international's future is set to face more scrutiny now the Tartan Army are out of the World Cup.
Ferguson is currently playing for Bologna in Serie A, having moved there from Aberdeen back in July 2022.
During his time at Pittodrie, Ferguson - now 26 - played under new Rangers boss Derek McInnes.
McInnes has already been reunited with one of his former Aberdeen players, with Ross McCrorie among a quintet of players signed.
And now a former team-mate of Ferguson's, who also played for McInnes at the same time, thinks there is a strong possibility of a reunion.
Lewis Ferguson to Rangers to be a 'statement' signing
McInnes has been busy rebuilding his Rangers squad ahead of his first season in charge at Ibrox.
But there is no doubt that bringing Ferguson to Govan would represent a pretty big coup for Rangers.
Dominic Ball played alongside Ferguson under McInnes at Aberdeen, and saw first hand the relationship the two had.
Ball, speaking to the Daily Record, thinks the trust Ferguson has in McInnes could be crucial to getting a deal over the line.
The now Cambridge United midfielder said: "It would be a statement signing if they could make it happen.
"He has played in the World Cup for Scotland. He is playing in one of the top leagues in the world and has done well there.
"If he could get Lewis, it would be incredible. I have thought Fergie would go there for years. It makes sense for everyone.
"He has done really well in Italy. He might be happy to stay there and Rangers might be something for the future.
“I can see why Rangers would be interested, especially with Derek as manager.
"Derek and Lewis have a strong relationship. Fergie came in as a really young player, just took over and got better and better.
“That would help Rangers’ cause. Derek will know what he would get from Lewis. You need quality and a mental toughness."
What Rangers' transfer business so far tells us
Rangers have been extremely active in the transfer window as they look to put together a title-winning squad.
McCrorie is one of five signings thus far, with Lawrence Shankland taking the same path as McInnes in joining from Hearts.
Croatia goalkeeper Ivor Pandur has arrived from Hull City, while Ben Godfrey has joined on loan from Atalanta, and Dan Neil signed on as a free agent after leaving Sunderland.
The business thus far suggests that McInnes is targeting either tried-and-tested Scottish Premiership talent, or players with clear leadership qualities.
Bringing in Ferguson would tick off both boxes, and would represent an excellent piece of business for Rangers.