Ahmed Kendouci has been labelled ‘the best player’ in Algerian football amid claims that Mick Beale’s Rangers are confident about sealing a January deal for the stylish attacking midfielder, via Competition.
Beale, after returning for a second spell at Ibrox recently, wasted no time in announcing his intention to give Rangers more thrust and threat in the final third. The Glasgow giants, heading into the World Cup break, had scored 16 fewer goals than Old Firm rivals Celtic after all.
And Kendouci could certainly go a long way to solving that problem.
No one in Algeria’s top-flight has more than his eight goals in 11 games so far in 2022/23. A tally which looks all-the-more impressive when you consider that Kendouci is not a centre-forward but a central midfielder.
Rangers, however, will face competition from Algerian league leaders CR Belouizdad for the EF Setif talsiman’s signature; CRB president Mohamed Benelhadj opening up on his admiration for a 23-year-old playmaker silkier than a hand-washed kimono.
Rangers like Algeria international Ahmed Kendouci but Mick Beale faces competition
“Kendouci is a player who interests us a lot,” Benelhadj admits. “He is currently the best player in the league. At the CRB, we want the best.”
According to Football Scotland, Rangers have already held initial talks with Kendouci’s agent. Current employers ES Setif are open to letting Kendouci go, but only on a permanent basis. Rangers would prefer an initial loan deal, though there is a ‘confidence’ at Ibrox that a compromise can be reached before February’s transfer deadline.
“His creative passing figures are out of this world,” stats website Total Football Analysis explain of Kendouci. “He has a top passing quality to get the ball into dangerous positions and a great view of the pitch. His great delivery from set pieces also contributes to these figures.
“Kendouci has the technical quality to manipulate the ball in tight spaces and escape pressure. He’s also very creative with his first touch. (He) can leave players behind with unexpected flicks, and carries the ball forward at a very good speed.
“But apart from creating chances, Kendouci also stands out as a finisher himself. He gets into the box a lot and poses a big goal threat.”
Rangers are reportedly keeping tabs on Trofense midfielder Beni too. Blackpool’s Jerry Yates is another name allegedly on the radar.
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