NafisaRangers’ search for attacking reinforcements remains one of Derek McInnes’ biggest priorities before the transfer window closes, but not every target appears to be within the club’s financial reach.
After strengthening several key areas of the squad already this summer, the Ibrox hierarchy continue monitoring a number of forwards capable of adding goals and creativity to the side.
One player who has consistently impressed Rangers’ recruitment team is Hearts striker Claudio Braga. The Portuguese forward enjoyed a superb debut campaign in Scottish football, quickly establishing himself as one of the Premiership’s most exciting attacking talents after arriving from Norway just a year ago.
However, despite Rangers’ long-standing admiration, fresh reports suggest the chances of bringing Braga to Ibrox are becoming increasingly slim.
According to Football Insider, Rangers are unlikely to meet Hearts’ reported £9 million valuation for Claudio Braga, making a deal difficult to complete this summer.
The 26-year-old scored 17 goals in all competitions during his first season at Tynecastle after joining Hearts from Norwegian side Aalesund for just £400,000 last summer.
His impressive form has dramatically increased his market value, with Hearts now in line to make a substantial profit should they decide to sell.
Braga dreaming of Premier League move
While both Rangers and Celtic have been linked with Braga in recent months, the striker is reportedly hoping to take the next step in his career by securing a move to the Premier League or another major European league.
Ipswich Town have previously been mentioned as potential suitors, although more recent reports suggest the English club are not currently preparing an offer.
Even so, sources indicate Braga remains eager to test himself in England should fresh Premier League interest emerge before the end of the transfer window.
That ambition represents another obstacle for Rangers, who would not only have to match Hearts’ sizeable asking price but also convince the player to remain in Scottish football.
With Premier League clubs capable of comfortably meeting Hearts’ valuation, Rangers are expected to struggle financially if serious competition develops.
As things stand, Derek McInnes is understood to admire Braga but is unlikely to pursue a deal unless Hearts significantly reduce their demands or circumstances change later in the window.
Instead, Rangers continue exploring alternative targets as they look to strengthen the squad ahead of the new campaign.
The club’s recruitment strategy has increasingly focused on identifying emerging talent across Scandinavia, where Rangers believe greater value can be found compared to Europe’s biggest leagues.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently claimed Rangers are attempting to discover “the next Erling Haaland” by expanding their scouting network throughout the Nordic region.
One player firmly on Rangers’ radar remains Jens Hjerto-Dahl, with the highly-rated Tromsø midfielder once again emerging as a leading target this summer.
The Norwegian Under-21 international is viewed as one of Scandinavia’s brightest young prospects, and Rangers believe he has the potential to develop into a top-level midfielder.
For now, though, Claudio Braga appears increasingly likely to remain out of reach.
Unless Rangers can overcome Hearts’ £9 million valuation or Braga’s ambitions change, the prolific forward looks set to remain a difficult signing for McInnes despite the club’s long-standing admiration.
Nafisa
