Rangers make approach to sign Burnley star Hjalmar Ekdal as loan news emerges

Rangers have made an approach to Burnley about a loan deal for defender Hjalmar Ekdal, according to Expressen.

The Swedish outlet reported (11 January) that the Clarets are set to allow the Swedish centre-back to leave on loan in January.

The Gers face competition for the 26-year-old from the likes of Middlesbrough, Stoke, and Italian clubs for a temporary deal for the defender.

The seven-cap Sweden international has struggled with injuries so far this season and hasn't played at ll in the Championship. However, he could strengthen under-fire Philippe Clement's squad in a position of need.

Rangers need reinforcements for Clement

Clement desperately needs reinforcements in the transfer market with his side currently 18 points behind league leaders Celtic.

The Gers have a game in hand against St. Johnstone (12 January) but even if they secure victory, the gap will still be 15 points, which is simply unacceptable.

There is little chance of overhauling Brendan Rodgers' side, so it is a case of damage limitation and trying to go as far as they can in the Europa League and the domestic cup.

Patrick Stewart, the Ibrox club's newly-appointed CEO has given the Belgian boss reassurances that he will be given a chance to turn the team's poor fortunes around rather than sacking Clement.

That starts with the transfer market, improving the personnel in the squad primarily with long-term fixes rather than loan deals.

Temporary deals seem pretty pointless given the circumstances of this season, unless the Light Blues can secure permanent options in the future.

In other Rangers news, the Gers could be set to bank millions after a new development involving Malik Tillman.

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