adminRangers are reportedly preparing to make another move that could disrupt Celtic’s transfer plans, with the two Glasgow giants seemingly heading for another battle over one of the most wanted players available this summer.
With the transfer window rapidly approaching its closing stages, Rangers have made it clear that they have no intention of allowing Celtic to dominate the market without a fight.
Scottish clubs now have only a limited amount of time remaining to complete their summer recruitment, and attention has once again turned towards a potential Old Firm transfer showdown.
This time, the player at the centre of the battle is Fares Ghedjemis.
The highly-rated Frosinone winger has attracted considerable interest after producing an impressive campaign in Italy, with both Rangers and Celtic reportedly keen to secure his signature.
Rangers are believed to have already tested Frosinone’s resolve with a bid worth more than £8 million, although the proposal was rejected by the Italian club.
Celtic, meanwhile, have been monitoring Ghedjemis for a much longer period and have continued exploring the possibility of bringing him to Parkhead.
That has set the stage for another fascinating transfer contest between the Glasgow rivals.
Celtic previously held the advantage
One of the most intriguing elements of the situation is that Celtic were previously considered to be ahead of Rangers in the race for Ghedjemis.
Football Insider had reported that the Hoops were in the strongest position to sign the winger, despite interest from Rangers and clubs in Italy.
Celtic’s long-term pursuit could therefore prove important as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.
However, Rangers’ reported willingness to make a sizeable financial offer shows that they are prepared to compete aggressively for the Algeria international.
The situation could become even more unpredictable during the final days of the window.
Rangers have already made significant changes to their squad this summer, with manager McInnes overseeing a major rebuild as the club attempts to challenge Celtic more strongly.
Despite the number of new arrivals, further attacking additions remain on the agenda.
Ghedjemis would certainly fit that requirement.
Celtic previously came close to signing Ghedjemis
There is an additional twist to the story because Celtic have already come remarkably close to securing the winger.
The Hoops reportedly reached an agreement with Frosinone over a transfer in January, but the move eventually fell through after Ghedjemis decided to remain in Italy.
Since then, the player’s reputation and market value have continued to rise.
His performances have helped strengthen his standing, while his involvement in Frosinone’s return to Serie A has further increased interest in his services.
Celtic could therefore face the frustrating possibility of missing out on a player they previously had within reach, only to watch him join their biggest rivals.
However, neither Rangers nor Celtic may ultimately secure the winger if Monaco’s interest develops further.
The French club are also reportedly making progress in their pursuit, meaning the transfer could turn into a three-way contest before the window closes.
For Rangers, the previously reported £8m-plus offer demonstrates just how serious their interest could be.
Celtic, meanwhile, may need to accelerate their efforts if Martin O’Neill remains determined to bring Ghedjemis to Parkhead.
Celtic still have work to do in the transfer market
The Ghedjemis situation arrives at a crucial stage for Celtic, who still have several areas of their squad to strengthen.
The Hoops are pursuing a number of targets as O’Neill looks to build a team capable of competing domestically while also preparing for the demands of European football.
Celtic are reportedly interested in Ermin Mahmic of Slovan Liberec, with a deal believed to be worth somewhere between £7m and £8.5m being discussed.
The club are also considering goalkeeper Balazs Toth, while Alistair Johnston’s injury has increased the need for further defensive reinforcements.
Champions League qualification could also provide Celtic with a significant financial boost, potentially giving the club greater room to spend before the transfer deadline.
That makes the closing days of the window especially important.
Rangers cannot afford to wait
Rangers, meanwhile, face their own pressure to strengthen the squad.
McInnes has already made sweeping changes since taking charge, but some early results have increased expectations surrounding the club’s recruitment plans.
The Ibrox side suffered a 2-1 defeat against Hibernian earlier this month, while Celtic made an impressive start to their league campaign, including a convincing 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock.
Rangers therefore need players capable of making an immediate impact.
Ghedjemis would offer versatility in the attacking areas, while his ability to contribute goals makes him an appealing option for the Ibrox side.
The problem for Rangers is that time is running out.
With Monaco reportedly stepping up their interest and Celtic still monitoring the situation, Rangers may have to act quickly if they want to prevent another lengthy transfer saga from ending without a deal.
Another Old Firm transfer battle on the cards?
At this stage, Ghedjemis’ eventual destination remains unclear.
Rangers have demonstrated their willingness to compete for his signature, while Celtic’s long-standing interest means the Hoops are unlikely to abandon the chase without a fight.
However, Monaco’s involvement could completely change the dynamics of the transfer.
What initially appeared to be another straightforward Rangers-versus-Celtic battle could now develop into a race against the clock involving three clubs.
If Rangers manage to beat Celtic to the signing of a player the Hoops have pursued for months, it would represent a major statement from McInnes and his recruitment team.
For Celtic supporters, seeing a long-term target eventually arrive at Ibrox would undoubtedly make the situation even more painful.
The final days of the Scottish transfer window are traditionally filled with drama, and this particular Old Firm transfer saga appears to have plenty more twists ahead.
One thing is already clear: Rangers and Celtic could be heading towards another major transfer showdown, with Ghedjemis potentially becoming the latest player at the centre of an intense battle between Scotland’s two biggest clubs.
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