Rangers Open Talks With IFK Goteborg For This Nigerian Sensation: Why They Must Make It Happen | OneFootball

Rangers have been spot on with their scouting in recent years and according to Samm Audu of Score Nigeria, the champions of Scotland have approached IFK Goteborg over the potential signing of Alhassan Yusuf. They, however, are not alone in the hunt with Brentford set to rival the Bears to secure his services this summer.

The young Nigerian joined the Swedish side back in 2018 and has featured 76 times so far in all competitions (stats via Transfermarket). He has been regular in the middle of the park and is drawing attention for his all-around ability despite being only 20-years-old. His emergence earned him the prestigious Young Player of the Year reward last season in the Swedish top flight.

While the likes of Wolves, Sheffield United and Club Brugge were keeping close tabs on Yusuf in the recent past, Jordan Campbell and Alex Stewart of The Athletic wrote a featured piece last year discussing his potential. Goteborg values him in the region of €3-4m but might eventually lose their prized asset for a lesser amount with his contract set to expire next year.

210705 IFK Göteborgs Alhassan Yusuf under fotbollsmatchen i Allsvenskan mellan IFK Göteborg och Elfsborg den 5 juli 2021 i Göteborg. *** 210705 IFK Gothenburgs Alhassan Yusuf during the football match in the Allsvenskan between IFK Gothenburg and Elfsborg on July 5, 2021 in Gothenburg, PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxSWExNORxAUT Copyright: MICHAELxERICHSEN BB210705MI031

The Gers are set to begin their title defence next month and have already commenced the pre-season campaign with a 1-0 victory against Partick Thistle at Firhill. They have roped in three new names already (Fashion Sakala, Nnamdi Ofoborh and John Lundstram) without spending any transfer fee and the shrewd business should continue considering the uncertainties over the future of Glen Kamara amid interest from Premier League.

Why Rangers Must Make Move For Yusuf

The youngster is comfortable with the ball at his feet and loves to burst forward from the deep to operate in the advanced areas of the pitch. He might feature as a deep-lying playmaker, thanks to his exquisite pressing and intercepting skills. He can also slot in as a box-to-box player with swift movements and off the ball work rate, coupled with his down the middle runs.

The Bears opted not to tie down Bongani Zungu on permanent terms. Steven Davis is 36 whereas the persistent injury problems might see Ryan Jack struggling to occupy a starting status twice a week. Steven Gerrard is aiming for long-term stability along with instant success and the signing of the Nigerian might prove to be a massive coup in the years to come.