Reported Rangers, Southampton and Leeds United target Santiago Moreno has agreed a summer move to MLS outfit Portland Timbers, the winger’s agent told El Pais.
To quote the legendary American country music star George Strait, ‘easy come, easy go’. And Moreno could be hearing a lot more of him over the next few months.
Just last week, Rangers, Southampton and Leeds appeared to have been handed a boost in their pursuit of an exciting young forward who, over the last year or so, has blossomed into one of the most promising up-and-comers in South American football.
America de Cali coach Juan Carlos Osorio confirmed that Moreno had been dropped from the squad as he pushed for an exit, with clubs on the other side of the Atlantic taking a keen interest in a man labelled ‘the new Sadio Mane’ due to his speed, skill and eye for goal (Telegraph).
But Ibrox will not be Moreno’s destination.
Neither, for that matter, will Elland Road or St Mary’s.
Are Rangers, Leeds and Southampton set to miss out on Santiago Moreno?
A move to the Beaver State is not yet signed, sealed and delivered but, with the Oregon-based Portland Timbers in pole position, Moreno looks certain to become the fourth Colombian player to join a largely Spanish-speaking squad.
“(The talks) are advanced, yes. We have already reached some agreements and we are continuing to work on the other details,” said Moreno’s agent, Romario Castrillon.
“There are other possibilities on the table, but the one we are working on at the moment and the closest to a deal is Portland.
“‘Santi’ leaves very grateful to the fans of America de Cali, he fulfilled his dreams and understands that leaving young will also give him the opportunity to return at a good time.
“(Moving to the US) has been a family decision. It will improve the quality of life for his mother and daughter, and that is the most important thing for everyone. We believe in him a lot and we are sure that he will achieve everything he sets out to do.”
Moreno was valued at around £2.5 million earlier this year, although it remains to be seen what effect interest from England and Scotland has had on his price-tag.
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