Rangers and Celtic race to sign star – ‘£15m bid to be accepted’
Rangers and Celtic have joined the race to sign Monaco left-back Kassoum Ouattara in the closing stages of the summer transfer window.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that sources have said about the 20-year-old’s potential destination with a number of clubs vying for his signature.
Both Russell Martin and Brendan Rodgers are keen to land a new left-back before the window closes, whether it be a permanent or loan move.
Speculation about the future of Ridvan Yilmaz has accelerated Rangers’ plans to recruit in his position amid long-term interest from a number of Turkish clubs.
New arrival Max Aarons has filled in for Martin during the club’s early-season fixtures, but the boss is determined to land a natural left-back in his place.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 14 July that Celtic are interested in Man United’s Tyrell Malacia as they aim to land a backup for Kieran Tierney.
Rangers make Kassoum Ouattara decision after large transfer spend
Football Insider revealed in March that Rangers would be backed with £25million to spend on new players as they eyed a sizeable overhaul of the squad.
However, after bringing nine new players through the doors at Ibrox, there is a growing feeling Rangers will have to be smart with their business late in the window.
O’Rourke explained that Ouattara’s £15million price tag could force the club to look elsewhere, while rivals for his signature stand a better chance.
“He’s somebody who is on the list of both clubs,” he told Football Insider.
“Celtic and Rangers are both looking to bolster their left-full-back options.
“Celtic are looking for competition and cover for Kieran Tierney following the departure of Greg Taylor earlier in the summer window.
“Rangers, as well, are looking to bring in reinforcements as Max Aarons has played a couple of games at left-back rather than his normal right-back position.
“Both clubs are in the market for a left-back and Ouattara has emerged on their radar.
“He’s a top young player, still only 20 and made 12 appearances in Ligue 1 last year for Monaco, but has found first-team football limited.
“There will be a lot of competition for him as well; French sides Toulouse, Metz, and also Dutch Champions PSV have been looking at him.
“It’s not going to be a straightforward deal for Rangers or Celtic, but it’s definitely a position both clubs are looking at as they want to strengthen their options.”
Russell Martin makes £20m Hamza Igamane demand
While Martin remains determined to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes, speculation about Hamza Igamane’s future is refusing to die down.
Football Insider revealed on 4 August that Rangers are hoping for a bidding war over Igamane’s future as a number of clubs have expressed an interest in a deal.
Everton have joined the likes of Lille, Feyenoord, Rennes and Udinese in their pursuit, and Rangers are planning to bump up his price tag as a result.
This comes after Football Insider revealed Rangers will demand £20million for Igamane and will be boosted if they can qualify for the Champions League.
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