Rangers are ‘near’ to completing additional January deals

With his statement that additional signings are “close,” Philippe Clement alluded to further impending arrivals at Rangers.

Earlier this month, Rangers signed striker Fabio Silva on a loan from English Premier League Wolves; but, the Belgian manager hopes to bolster the midfield and left back positions before the transfer market closes. In an effort to salvage the domestic season, Sam Lammers has also left the team, and Clement seems keen to recruit successors.

After Rangers’ 2-2 draw with Copenhagen, the Danish powerhouse, at Ibrox, Clement gave fans a preview of what to anticipate. “Yes, everyone is aligned about that,” he responded when asked if he expected to have more new signings by this point. Everyone involved in that is working day and night, and we are in need of a few more in specific jobs.

It’s been quite hectic with those things, but nothing is finished until a signature is agreed upon by the player, ourselves, and the opposing team. Aside from all the conversation we have with other players, I’m waiting and paying attention to the players that are present. That is what I have to accomplish in January, which is why every manager gets really happy on February 1st.”

When asked if he thought the Rangers were coming closer to signing deals, he replied, “I’ve already fielded this question a few times, but what is closer? We’re not getting any closer or any farther away as long as there’s no deal. While some things are near, it must be completed.”
Clement was questioned more about the left-back situation. Although he performed well in that role, Ridvan Yilmaz is anticipated to leave the team this month. While veteran Borna Barisic’s contract expires in the summer, he may also leave over the next few weeks.

“It’s obvious that we cannot continue in three competitions with one left full-back,” he said.

On Saturday, Rangers will play Dumbarton, a fourth-tier team, in the Scottish Cup fourth round. They haven’t claimed that famous trophy in the past two years, so Clement will want to build on their Viaplay Cup triumph before Christmas. In February, they will also be pursuing Celtic for the Premiership title and hoping to advance to the Europa League last 16.

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