Rangers could target a bargain transfer for full-back Gijs Smal after hopes of signing Josh Doig were slashed by Torino, according to The Sun.
The newspaper revealed on its website [January 7] that the Gers may sign Smal of FC Twente once his contract expires in the summer, while target Doig is nearing a move to Serie A team Torino for £3.5 million plus add-ons.
The Dutch defender was reportedly a £5 million target for Celtic last summer, but since he had not signed a contract extension, he could have left for free to join Twente.
Given that Borna Barisic’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season and Ridvan Yilmaz is close to leaving Ibrox, Philippe Clement has stated his desire to add another left-back to the Rangers roster.
The newest transfer target, known by his nickname “Smaldini,” joined FC Twente in 2020 and has since made 104 appearances, scoring four goals from left-back.
Doig, who was chosen as Scotland’s Young Player of the Year in 2021 and moved to Hella Verona in the summer, making 35 appearances and scoring twice, will be greatly disappointed not to sign with Clement.
After injuries to Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney, and Aaron Hickey, the 21-year-old was called up to the Scotland senior squad; however, he has not yet been given his international debut.
Rangers might have to give up on the Scottish possibility, though, as a transfer to Torino appears to be the most likely option. Still, Smal is a good target that the Giants could acquire for free if they wait until the summer.
If Clement can’t wait that long, FC Twente might let the 26-year-old go during the January transfer window for a low price rather than keeping him through the season and forgoing a transfer fee.
In other Rangers news, it’s said that this January, the Light Blues and Celtic will be watching the next Moises Caicedo.
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