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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Rangers in talks to make Lille defender Fernandes first January transfer signing

Rangers are in talks to sign Portuguese defender Rafael Fernandes.

Philippe Clement is thought to be close to finalising a deal to bring the stopper to Ibrox as his first signing of the January transfer window.

The centre-back, 22, currently plays for Lille but is expected to leave on loan until the end of the season.

The Rangers Review reports Fernandes is in discussions over a switch to Scotland for the remainder of the 2024/25 Scottish Premiership season.

Clement has made a new centre-back a priority this transfer window with Nana Kasanwirjo and John Souttar both sidelined.


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The Belgian manager was also without James Tavernier and Leon Balogun for a period through injury before the pair returned against Aberdeen in midweek.

Robin Propper has picked up a knock, though, with the centre-back a doubt for this weekend's Scottish Cup tie against Fraserburgh.

"Robin still felt something today," said Clement. "But there is a big chance he will be in the training tomorrow. 

"No guarantee yet for medical stuff. But the chance is big."

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