NafisaRangers’ summer transfer plans continue to evolve as Derek McInnes looks to reshape his squad ahead of the new campaign. While several fresh faces have already been linked with a move to Ibrox, supporters have also been dreaming of seeing one familiar favourite make an emotional return to Glasgow.
Few players made the impact Vaclav Cerny did during his spell in Scotland. The Czech international quickly became a fan favourite with his goals, creativity and relentless attacking threat, leaving many Rangers supporters disappointed when his stay came to an end.
Now, hopes of a sensational reunion have emerged once again, but fresh reports suggest Rangers could face a major obstacle that may ultimately prevent the deal from becoming a reality.
Rangers fear Vaclav Cerny deal is slipping away
Rangers have reportedly explored the possibility of bringing Vaclav Cerny back to Ibrox this summer, but concerns are growing that the club could be priced out of any move for the winger.
According to Record Sport, Rangers have made enquiries over the 28-year-old’s situation at Besiktas, just a year after the Turkish club completed a €5 million deal to sign him following his successful loan spell from Wolfsburg.
Cerny had hoped to remain at Rangers after impressing during his season in Glasgow, but the move never materialised after former sporting director Kevin Thelwell and ex-manager Russell Martin instead prioritised alternative transfer targets.
The decision is now reportedly viewed inside Ibrox as one of several costly mistakes made during last summer’s recruitment drive, prompting Rangers to investigate whether a reunion could still be possible.
The Czech international is believed to be open to returning to Rangers, offering encouragement to supporters hoping for a second spell at the club.
However, Besiktas are currently under little pressure to sell.
Although the Turkish side are strengthening their attacking options, including completing the signing of Leandro Trossard and being linked with Ghana international Abdul Fatawu, Cerny still has three years remaining on his current contract.
That agreement is believed to be worth around £45,000 per week, creating a financial hurdle Rangers would struggle to overcome.
Even if Besiktas became willing to sanction a loan move later in the transfer window, matching the winger’s salary would present a significant challenge for the Scottish club.
As a result, Record Sport reports that, unless there is a dramatic change in circumstances, Cerny is unlikely to become a realistic option for Derek McInnes this summer.
Meanwhile, Rangers continue pressing ahead with other transfer targets as McInnes looks to strengthen his squad before the window closes.
Creative reinforcements remain among the manager’s priorities, with Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl continuing to feature prominently on the club’s shortlist.
The highly rated Tromsø youngster has attracted widespread interest, with reports suggesting Cardiff City have already seen a £5.5 million offer rejected.
Tromsø are understood to value the Norway Under-21 international at around £7.5 million, with negotiations continuing as multiple clubs remain in the race.
Speaking about Hjerto-Dahl’s future, Tromsø sporting director Lars Petter Kraemer-Andressen said:
“There have been negotiations over the past week. We’ll see what happens, it could take a while. Several clubs are interested, but a lot has to fall into place for something to happen.
“If he’s going to move on, it has to be a club Jens wants to go to and we also have pretty high expectations for the price.”
While Rangers remain active in the transfer market, supporters hoping for Vaclav Cerny’s return may have to temper their expectations. Unless Besiktas lower their demands or a financial compromise can be reached, the popular winger’s second spell at Ibrox appears increasingly difficult to pull off despite the club’s interest in bringing him back.
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