‘Hamza Igamane race widens as Rangers exit takes new twist – Everton among 3 rivals’
Everton will be on high alert as Hamza Igamane’s future as a Rangers player takes yet another twist this summer.
The 22-year-old has been an instant success at Ibrox, notching 16 goals and three assists in 46 appearances across all competitions, although his form dropped towards the end of the season.
Having arrived for just £1.5million from FAR Rabat last summer, supporters were extremely complimentary of the club’s transfer strategy, though he could now be sold on for profit as a new era begins.
Football Insider understands that Russell Martin was keen to build the squad around Igamane and Nico Raskin, but after a superb first season in Europe, the Gers have the perfect chance to cash in.
Nonetheless, Mick Brown told Football Insider last month that Igamane was closing in on a move to Lille, though clubs may now be keeping tabs on the situation following the latest update from France.
Hamza Igamane transfer saga continues
The move to Ligue 1 was indeed on the cards but it appears issues between the two clubs could yet see that deal collapse, opening the door for rivals to hijack, with more suitors joining the race.
Taking to X (19 July), Sky Sports Switzerland’s Sacha Tavolieri wrote: “Lille are struggling in their negotiations with Rangers FC for Hamza Igamane. Despite a personal agreement with the Moroccan, the deal’s still on hold.
“In the meantime, Feyenoord entered the race. Everton and Udinese have also made enquiries. One to watch,” potentially allowing other teams to come in for the player’s signature.
Rangers to ready for huge Ibrox exit
Football Insider verdict
Although fans have already come to terms with Igamane’s exit, it appears that Ligue 1 will not be his destination following the latest update surrounding Lille.
Of course, the French club have lost both Jonathan David and Angel Gomes despite finishing in a Europa League spot in the league table last season, so more firepower is desperately needed.
The same can be said for David Moyes‘ Everton side, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract expiring, and Thierno Barry being signed to battle Beto for the starting spot at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Business has certainly started in style at Ibrox, with deals for Djeidi Gassama, Nasser Djiga, Thelo Aasgaard, Emmanuel Fernandez, Joe Rothwell, and Max Aarons all being completed.
They may already be able to seal a replacement for Igamane, with Football Insider understanding that Rangers are considering signing 38-year-old Luuk de Jong on a free transfer.
While the Gers still have Cyriel Dessers, who has scored 51 goals across the last two seasons, he is unlikely to be able to play all games across all competitions next season.