Given that Russian powerhouse Zenit St Petersburg’s £10.5 million bid for Copa Libertadores winner Fluminense was rejected, it already looks as though Jhon Arias is above Rangers’ budget.
To be honest, it never felt very likely that Jhon Arias would end up at Ibrox during the January transfer window. That’s just the hard reality for any Scottish club, let alone one with the history and fan base that Rangers has.
With their budget, the Glasgow giants may have more than most Premiership sides could ever imagine. However, Philippe Clement’s financial resources are still insignificant when compared to clubs on the other side of the continent and south of the border.
Arias was scouted by Rangers. However, as per TEAMtalk, some Premier League clubs have also done so. Among them are Crystal Palace, Wolves, and West Ham United. Rangers can be easily defeated by Leeds United and Leicester City, two teams in the second division.
Meanwhile, Zenit St Petersburg’s £10.5 million proposal was turned down by the recently crowned South American champions. With an offer greater than Rangers have ever made for a player in their 151-year existence, the Russian behemoths failed (Globo Esporte).
Fluminense’s Jhon Arias too expensive for Rangers
When Gol Caracol questioned Arias’ agent, Alex Viveros, he remained silent on those Zenit connections. But he did reveal interest from several English-based teams, and Arias’s stature continued to rise after he assisted Fluminense in their historic Copa Libertadores victory over Boca Juniors.
“Jhon is a composed, dedicated, and focused player. He also has my partner Gianfranco’s support, who has been a huge help to him in Brazil. We closely monitor the pertinent facets of his work together,” says Viveros.
“Arias is one of the best players in Brazilian football. (A league) considered one of the most difficult championships in the world. Therefore, it is not surprising that he has aroused the interest of several Premier League teams.
“Jhon’s future will depend on the opportunities and needs of clubs abroad.”
‘Several Premier League teams’
From a Rangers standpoint, the good news is that the Glasgow giants are willing to support Clement in the winter even after a summer of lavish expenditure, as evidenced by their interest in players like Arias.
Up to three new players might join, according to reports, with a striker being the main target.
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