NafisaRangers continue to be one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market as preparations for the new campaign gather momentum, with Derek McInnes still eager to strengthen several key areas of his squad before competitive football returns.
The Ibrox hierarchy have already backed their new manager with multiple additions during the summer window, but recruitment work has shown no signs of slowing down. Behind the scenes, club officials remain focused on identifying players capable of improving the squad immediately while also offering long-term value.
Midfield remains an area where Rangers are keen to add further quality, and several names have been linked with a move to Glasgow over recent weeks. One of those targets is a player who has been catching plenty of attention with his impressive performances in Norway.
Now, the highly-rated youngster has finally addressed the growing speculation surrounding his future — and his comments are likely to excite Rangers supporters.
Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl has admitted he would rather join Rangers than complete a move to Turkish giants Besiktas if given the choice.
The 20-year-old has attracted interest from Ibrox, while clubs in Turkey and at least one side in England are also monitoring his progress ahead of a potential transfer.
Hjerto-Dahl has enjoyed an outstanding start to the Norwegian Eliteserien campaign, registering six goals and two assists in just 14 appearances as his club continue to lead the division.
His impressive form has only increased demand for his signature, prompting his current club to place an asking price of around £8.5 million on one of their most valuable assets.
Rangers are fully aware they would need to make a significant financial commitment if they are to finally secure a player they have admired since last summer.
Despite growing interest from elsewhere, Hjerto-Dahl has now publicly spoken about his future for the first time and revealed where his preference lies.
While acknowledging that negotiations could still take time before any move is completed, the Norwegian admitted Rangers remain his favoured destination.
«”I still prefer Rangers over Besiktas (and Celtic), but I am prepared for the fact that it could take a long time before a move to a new club is finalised.”»
Those comments will undoubtedly hand Rangers encouragement as they continue assessing their midfield options before the transfer window closes.
The Light Blues have already welcomed six new arrivals this summer, but Derek McInnes is understood to be pushing for additional reinforcements as he continues reshaping his squad.
Alongside Hjerto-Dahl, Rangers have also been heavily linked with Partizan Belgrade midfielder Vanja Dragojevic, another player believed to feature prominently on the club’s shortlist.
Whether Rangers ultimately decide to invest heavily in Hjerto-Dahl remains to be seen, but the player’s latest comments have certainly fuelled hopes that Ibrox could be his preferred destination should an agreement eventually be reached.
Nafisa
