Rangers will surely now know they have to abandon any pursuit of Marseille defender Bamo Meite.
According to Telefoot journalist Saber Desfarges (5 January), the Gers wanted to bring the centre-back to Ibrox on a “dry loan” and were set to face competition from Ligue 1 outfit Montpellier.
However, Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi has revealed Meite is facing an extended period on the sidelines, as relayed by the Daily Record [6 January], thus ending all hope of a January transfer.
He said: “Bamo Meite was not on the bench because of a foot problem. Meite was injured yesterday too. It’s fairly serious. It could be weeks before he returns.”
Philippe Clement is desperate for defensive recruits after John Souttar’s latest injury setback, but the Belgian will now be forced to expand his search.
Rangers will not sign Bamo Meite from Marseille
The groans of the Rangers faithful are growing louder in Glasgow after another setback in the Scottish Premiership.
Clement had looked to have turned a corner at Ibrox after the 3-0 win against Celtic in the Old Firm derby last weekend, but immediately reverted to type with a 3-3 draw against Hibernian on Sunday (5 December).
Souttar is proving to be a massive loss for the Light Blues and with loanee Neraysho Kasanwirjo not expected to play again this season, the options are wearing thin across the backline.
However, signing Meite was already viewed as a calculated risk for Rangers, and now, with the news that he will also be sidelined for an extended spell, Nils Koppen must look elsewhere.
PSV Eindhoven defender Adomo Nagalo sparked speculation about a January arrival at Ibrox after he was spotted sporting a Gers jersey on Instagram, but those claims are unsubstantial.
The defence is a priority this month, with a return for Nathan Patterson mooted as he seeks a loan to move away from Everton in search of regular game time [Daily Record].
Regardless, Meite will no longer remain a target for Clement given the circumstances, but the pressure will be mounting to improve the squad after recent results and pivotal Europa League clashes ahead.
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