Rangers transfer news as talks underway for Ridvan Yilmaz exit already

According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Hellas Verona and Rangers have begun negotiations for Ridvan Yilmaz as Philippe Clement looks for a new left-back.

The Serie A team is reportedly interested in the Gers full-back, who has gradually gained Clement’s trust since taking over as manager in October, according to an Italian daily article [3 January, page 22].

It is understood, however, that the Belgian will be on the lookout for a new left-back during the January transfer window, with Yilmaz and Borna Barisic his options in the position currently.

Searching for a replacement

Giovanni van Bronckhorst signed the Turkish full-back during the summer transfer window of 2022, but his 2022–2023 campaign was marred by a hamstring injury.

Michael Beale was patient with the 22-year-old after he recovered from an injury earlier this season, but Clement has been able to realize the left-back’s full potential. It is obvious that he is not impressed and would prefer a new transfer for the role.

Rangers paid a fee of £3.4million for Yilmaz, rising to £5.3million with add-ons [BBC Sport]. If Verona are to come in for the full-back, the Gers will be hoping to break even on Yilmaz rather than lose money on the player.

With Clement struggling to implement his own style of football, mainly due to Beale’s spending spree last summer, there are little to no funds left for the current manager to make his signings. A large transfer fee for Yilmaz could definitely benefit the club.

The previous coach signed multi-million dollar contracts with players like Danilo of Feyenoord, Cyriel Dessers of Cremonese, and Sam Lammers of Atalanta.

It won’t be hard to replace the Turkish defender if he leaves this January, as players like Liverpool’s Owen Beck have already been linked to Rangers in the wake of the team’s left-back need.

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