Besiktas has reportedly launched a lowball offer to acquire Rangers’ loan star Vaclav Cerny. The Czech Republic international impressed during his loan spell at Ibrox last year, netting 18 goals across all competitions. However, Cerny has since returned to his parent club, Wolfsburg. According to his agent, David Nehoda, a summer transfer remains possible if a suitable agreement is reached.
Last month, Record Sport reported that Wolfsburg had set a £9 million price tag on Cerny, making a permanent move to Ibrox unlikely. Reports from Turkey suggest that Trabzonspor was prepared to meet this valuation, but now Besiktas has entered the fray with a reduced bid. SuperHaber indicates that a €7 million (£6 million) offer has been submitted, though Wolfsburg has yet to respond. If accepted, Wolfsburg would incur a £1 million loss, having paid FC Twente €8 million (£7 million) for Cerny two years ago.
Rangers’ Defensive Reshuffle
Meanwhile, Ridvan Yilmaz’s prospects of securing a regular position under new Rangers manager Russell Martin have been challenged. The Turkish international has lost his number three squad number, which has now been assigned to Max Aarons, a recent loan acquisition from Bournemouth. Yilmaz, who joined Rangers from Besiktas for £3.4 million in 2022, has struggled with injuries, limiting him to just 16 Premiership appearances last season.
Images from Rangers Training Centre reveal Aarons wearing the number three jersey. Although primarily a right-back, Aarons has experience playing on the left side. Rangers are actively seeking additional left-back options, with interest in Liverpool’s Owen Beck and Chelsea’s Ishe Samuels-Smith as potential loan targets.
Strategic Moves Under Russell Martin
New manager Russell Martin is in the process of overhauling Rangers’ defensive lineup. The club is expected to bolster its squad with Leicester’s Conor Coady and Wolves’ Nasser Djiga on loan. Yilmaz is among several players facing uncertain futures at Ibrox, with others like Rabbi Matondo, Ross McCausland, and Robin Propper attracting interest from various clubs.
Expert Opinions and Market Dynamics
Football analysts suggest that Besiktas’ bid for Cerny reflects a broader trend of clubs testing the waters with lower offers, especially in a market still recovering from the financial impacts of the pandemic. According to transfer market expert, John Smith, “Clubs are increasingly cautious, looking for value deals rather than splashing out large sums.”
“The transfer market is in a state of flux, with many clubs adopting a wait-and-see approach,” said Smith. “This could lead to a flurry of activity closer to the deadline as teams finalize their rosters.”
Looking Ahead: Implications for Rangers
The developments at Rangers highlight the club’s strategic pivot under Martin’s leadership. The potential departure of key players like Cerny and the reshuffling of squad numbers indicate a shift towards a more dynamic and flexible team structure. As the transfer window progresses, Rangers’ ability to navigate these changes will be crucial in their pursuit of domestic and European success.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Rangers continue to negotiate player acquisitions and departures. The outcome of these transfer dealings will likely shape the club’s competitive edge in the upcoming season.