As Russell Martin looks to add the finishing touches on his summer overhaul, one Glasgow Rangers star is reportedly on the verge of finalising his departure away from the club.
Rangers' summer overhaul so far
It’s been all change at Ibrox so far this summer. The Gers first welcomed new owners in the 49ers, then instantly solved their managerial problem by hiring Martin. And ever since, it’s been one fresh face after another. As things stand, the Scottish giants have welcomed as many as six reinforcements this summer, with five of those coming from English football.
Of course, it should come as no surprise that Rangers have been quick to get as much business done as possible, with their Champions League qualifier fast approaching.
The Gers will square off against Panathinaikos on July 22, before the second leg takes place eight days later in a crucial week for all involved at Ibrox. With just seven days to get his side in shape for that all-important first-leg, Martin may yet welcome more fresh faces to finalise his squad ahead of his debut campaign in Scotland.
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Names such as Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi have threatened to steal the headlines in the last week or so and he would certainly follow the trend of talents arriving from English football. But before then, Rangers’ focus may need to shift towards the exit door, amid reports that one player could be heading for a summer departure.
Ridvan Yilmaz agrees Rangers exit
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Ridvan Yilmaz has now agreed to leave Rangers and a deal to join Besiktas is on the verge of being finalised. The left-back has been linked with a move away for some time and now finally looks set to rejoin his former club ahead of next season.
It’s been a mixed spell for the Turkish defender, who missed large parts of last season through injury as new arrival Jefte took hold of his starting spot in Scotland. Whether he would have regained that place under Martin this season is now a question that the Gers may never have an answer for, as Besiktas make their move.
Former interim manager Barry Ferguson was certainly a fan of Yilmaz, however, having told reporters towards the end of last season: “He’s played in a position which is pretty foreign to him. He’s played right back for us. His natural position is left back.
“But he’s one player I can rely on. He doesn’t moan. I’ve asked him to play different positions. He’s become a big player. I like his attitude. His attitude has always been first class. It’s now about him being fully fit for the rest of the season. Because I think if he plays more games, I think he can get better and better.”
