Rangers expert drops ‘huge’ verdict on record-breaking deal after ‘positive’ new Abdallah Sima talks with Brighton
Rangers will not meet Brighton’s “huge” valuation for Abdallah Sima after his loan spell at Ibrox ends but a deal could still be done after “positive” new talks.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Gers and Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton admitted he was eager to see the loanee remain in Glasgow after his excellent spell so far.
As revealed by Football Insider (31 December), Brighton would be open to selling the 22-year-old permanently and value him at between £10-15million.
The latest news from Ibrox sources today is that the two clubs remain in dialogue and positive discussions have taken place.
Sima remains the Gers’ top goalscorer in all competitions and his exceptional strike against Kilmarnock on Tuesday (2 January) brought his goal tally up to 15 across 33 appearances.
However, while the Seagulls may be willing to depart with the forward, Hutton remains doubtful that Philippe Clement’s side would be able to fund a move.
“I think if the price is right, they’ll get him,” he told Football Insider.
“I’ll be very surprised if Rangers pay between £10-15million on one player. I can’t see that happening, only if they get him for a price that they’re happy with.
“We’ve seen them spend huge fees in the past like when they paid £7million for Ryan Kent.
“These types of fees they have done sometimes, but anything above that I can’t see.
“I’m looking at Kevin van Veen, Lawrence Shankland – I don’t think they’re going to cost anywhere near that.
“Me personally, I want to see Sima stay. We’re starting to see the best of him.
“We know he can score goals, but that fee is a big stumbling block.”