Rangers and AC Milan have been battling it out to sign Troyes defender Sankhoun Diawara, who has now made a decision over his immediate future.
The centre-back has emerged on Rangers’ radar in recent weeks as they look to welcome the finishing touches to Derek McInnes’ backline. Having already welcomed the experienced Ben Godfrey, the Gers clearly saw Diawara as the chance to add some youthful exuberance on top.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
It looked like Rangers were set to enjoy a free run at Diawara, before AC Milan came flying in. The Italians have since also agreed a deal to sign the defender and scuppered the Gers’ plans to land his signature. He’s now set for a medical at the Italian club. |
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Finances |
It’s unclear how much Troyes are selling their young defender for, but given that he’s into the final year of his contract, it’s unlikely to be a hefty fee. |
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Scouting |
The 20-year-old played a key role in Ligue 2 last year as Troyes finished top of the league and secured promotion to Ligue 1. What most stood out was his duel success, winning 67% of his duels whilst also winning 74.1% of his aerial duels. This is a towering defender who is already so dominant at just 20 years old. |
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Impact |
It’s back to square one for Rangers if AC Milan secure the defender’s signature. Where they turn to next remains to be seen, though. |
Rangers were forced to watch on as Milan emerged and could now miss out on one of their top targets as a result. It’s a major blow for all involved at Ibrox, who will be back to the drawing board.
Diawara makes transfer choice between Rangers and Milan
As reported by Footmercato, Diawara has now picked AC Milan over Rangers and is on his way to the Italian club to complete a medical.
Both sides reached an agreement to sign the defender, but he is set to join up with Milan’s youth side, effectively choosing a pathway to the first-team at San Siro over more immediate chances at Ibrox.
It’s frustrating news for Rangers, who would have welcomed a centre-back who could have dominated the Scottish Premiership for years to come.
They’re now likely to focus on adding targets like Jens Hjerto-Dahl, before revisiting their need for a central defender.
Rangers preparing move to sign Claudio Braga
One way to forget all about Diawara is to go knocking on the door of those at Tynecastle again. This time, it could be Claudio Braga on the move with reports emerging that Rangers are preparing a move for Hearts’ star man.
Having already welcomed Lawrence Shankland and manager McInnes this summer, it would be quite the final blow to sign Braga. The forward was voted the Scottish Premiership’s Player of the Season last time out and would be the 49ers’ best signing yet at Ibrox.
