According to Football Scotland, Luca Langoni was a Rangers transfer target during Michael Beale’s disastrous summer transfer window but proved too expensive.
Later that day, on January 15, the outlet stated on their website that the 21-year-old is still in the same predicament, with Sevilla and Nice considering “big-money moves” for the winger, who is regarded as “one of Argentina’s most exciting prospects.”
Earlier that day, it was rumored that the Light Blues had made an offer to Boca Juniors during the January transfer window about a prospective deal for the Fulham-linked attacker, who is expected to move to Europe in the summer [Standard, 15 January].
Beale splashed the cash on nine recruits ahead to the season, the majority of which went to the underperforming striker trio of Sam Lammers, Cyriel Dessers, and Danilo.
The Dutchman has already left on loan again this month, while Clement has only added Fabio Silva on the same terms so far.
A player who is already garnering interest from the English Premier League, Ligue 1 and La Liga would never be easy to recruit to the SPFL.
But if Rangers have been on Langoni’s case since the summer and have contacted him again about a potential move this month, they may believe they can persuade the young wide man that a year or two in Glasgow would be best for his development before moving to a top five league.
Despite the fact that the Ibrox board said at the previous AGM that the manager would still be supported despite the spending under Beale [Rangers Review, 5 December], there has only been one new temporary addition.
There won’t be much money to spend in January any way, but the club might still aim for a treble this season.
Langoni appears to be a sought-after player with whom Rangers have done some groundwork, so a summer push is not out of the question.
However, if he does well in the new Argentinian season, it will just enhance interest in him, and transfer rivals may simply offer money that the Gers cannot match.
The club appears to have gotten in early, so if they can make a persuasive case to the youngster or his club, they may still have a shot at what appears to be a market coup, but it will undoubtedly be a battle.
In other Rangers news, Clement has disclosed La Manga’s January move plans.
