‘Jamie Vardy closes in on Rangers deal after manager’s confession’
Rangers are pushing to agree a deal to sign Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy on a free transfer during the summer transfer window.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Russell Martin is determined to land the 38-year-old.
This comes after Martin refused to comment on interest in Vardy, but confessed: “I’ve been asked about so many players… You’ll find out who’s real and who’s not.” [BBC]
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 7 July that Rangers have opened preliminary talks with Vardy and are accelerating their pursuit of the striker.
The Ibrox club are determined to land a new striker and the ex-England forward’s availability put them on alert, alongside clubs in the MLS and Premier League.
This comes amid speculation about the futures of Cyriel Dessers and Hamza Igamane at Ibrox, with Martin keen to land a new number nine.
Rangers pushing to sign Jamie Vardy after Leicester exit
Brown told Football Insider on 30 June that Rangers have set their sights on signing Vardy and is expecting movement following his exit from Leicester City.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted Vardy is now “one to watch” as Rangers step up their interest in the coming days.
“Jamie Vardy is one to watch for Rangers,” he told Football Insider.
“I hear he’s the one they want to sign ahead of whichever other strikers they’re being linked to.
“The manager likes him and would value his experience.
“After what he said about transfers the other day, I’m expecting some activity there.
“There’s been a lot of talk about where he might go, whether he’ll stay in the Premier League, go to Scotland or America or wherever.
“But it’s one Rangers want to do and he would be a good addition for them.
“I think it’s something they’ll be working on behind the scenes and pushing forward with.
“So yeah, it’s watch this space for now.”
Jack Butland, Aaron Ramsdale – Ibrox goalkeeper update emerges
Vardy is not the only English player being linked with a move to Ibrox in recent weeks, as speculation has also emerged surrounding Jack Butland and Aaron Ramsdale.
However, Football Insider revealed on 16 June that Martin plans to keep Butland at Ibrox beyond the summer transfer window and is keen for him to prove his worth in pre-season.
Meanwhile, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider on 5 July that Rangers are unlikely to sign Ramsdale, instead tipping Leeds to make a move.
Farke’s side have been looking to upgrade in goal as Illan Meslier is no longer considered to have a future at Leeds after a mistake-ridden season.
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