Nobel Mendy to Rangers? Significant update after ‘deal was close’
Rangers have made a decision about their pursuit of Real Betis left-back Nobel Mendy after missing out on a deal during the summer window.
Mendy’s anticipated move to Rangers during the summer fell through, and he instead joined La Liga outfit Rayo Vallecano on a season-long loan deal.
His impressive performances on loan have sparked renewed interest in his long-term future, with some suggestions Danny Rohl‘s side could return for Mendy in January.
However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, I explained that Rangers are unlikely to make a move for the 21-year-old despite their long-standing interest after landing Derek Cornelius in his position during the summer.
Cornelius, 27, arrived on a season-long loan from Marseille with an option to buy, reducing any need for the addition of another left-sided centre-back in January.
Rangers unlikely to renew Nobel Mendy interest
Mendy has been a long-term target for Rangers after their interest during the summer, and they could reconsider a move for him at the end of the season.
However, a January move is not something they are considering, with other positions at the top of their list of priorities to strengthen Rohl’s squad.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “I would say it’s unlikely probably right now.
“They did look at him in the summer before the move fell down and obviously Rangers then went and brought in Derek Cornelius.
“So I think they’ve probably moved on from Mendy right now. As I said, the deal was close in the summer window, but he ended up going to Real Vallecano.
“Obviously Betis might look at options in the summer and what they want to do with Mendy as well, and then perhaps Rangers could look at it.
“So I think now with Rangers having brought in Cornelius is not a real priority to bring in Mendy.
“He’s probably more of a centre back than a left back. But like you said, left back, I think is an area of the team that Danny Rohl would like to strengthen in.”
Danny Rohl’s January transfer priorities revealed
Football Insider revealed on 28 October that Rangers want a left-back, striker and central midfielder in January as they aim to address their three priority positions.
Rohl would like to strengthen his squad and bring in players who better suit his style after what has been a strong start since he was brought in to replace Russell Martin.
A number of key positions were named as priorities during the summer, but they were ultimately unable to reach agreements and could revisit them in January.
However, Football Insider revealed that Rangers could struggle to back Rohl due to their heavy spending under Martin during the summer window.
They Glasgow club have struggled financially in recent seasons, and their £26million summer spend has heavily restricted what they can do in January.
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