Rangers are now looking to bring Real Betis midfielder Paul Akouokou to Ibrox this summer as Giovanni van Bronckhorst eyes new recruits.
That’s according to Spanish newspaper AS, who claim that sources close to Akouokou have admitted Rangers are keen.
Rangers aren’t alone in the race though. Almeria also want to sign Akouokou, with neither them nor Rangers submitting a formal offer yet.
Whether Betis are open to selling remains to be seen given that Akouokou has two years left on his contract.
The report notes that Akouokou is a ‘powerful’ midfield player who ‘commits too many fouls’. In 11 games this season, Akouokou has picked up three yellow cards.
Now 24 and with aspirations of becoming a regular Ivory Coast international, Akouokou needs to be playing first-team football.
Six league starts this season isn’t enough for Akouokou and you could hardly blame him for fancying a summer transfer.
Akouokou also started for Real Betis against Celtic back in December and Rangers may have spotted his display across Glasgow.
Rangers may be able to offer Akouokou more playing time and could provide something a little different at Ibrox.
Akouokou is a physical presence at 6ft 3in tall and Rangers don’t really have anybody quite like the defensive midfielder.
James Sands could fill that role but hasn’t really played regularly for Rangers since his January move from New York City FC.
Steven Davis isn’t getting any younger and Akouokou could be the future in terms of protecting Rangers’ defence.
Glen Kamara’s future isn’t exactly settled either so Rangers may seek another midfield addition this summer with Akouokou.
Almeria’s interest means Rangers may need to move quickly for Akouokou whilst staying in Spain could be appealing.
Almeria are fighting for promotion to La Liga and that may add another level of appeal to Akouokou.
It’s clear that Van Bronckhorst needs major signings to take Rangers forward and Akouokou is now a name to keep a close eye on.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
