Discussions Ongoing: European Manager Puts in ‘Great Efforts’ to Sign Rangers International, According to Report
Rangers Risk Losing Tom Lawrence to Besiktas This Summer, Reports IsciHaber
The Turkish news outlet (18 January) reported that new Besiktas manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is making “great efforts” to sign 31-year-old Tom Lawrence, a player he worked with during his time in Manchester United’s academy setup.
Lawrence has scored five goals in 15 appearances for Rangers across all competitions this season, but injuries have limited his contributions.
With his contract set to expire this summer, Besiktas aim to secure the player on a free transfer during the upcoming window.
This is Solskjaer’s first managerial position since his dismissal as Manchester United’s boss in 2021.
His previous role with the reserves and academy coincided with Lawrence’s development at Carrington as a young talent.
The report noted: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is making great efforts to bring his former student Tom Lawrence to the team.
The Norwegian coach believes that the experienced player will significantly strengthen Besiktas’ attacking line.
Transfer talks, initiated at Solskjaer’s request, are expected to conclude in the summer transfer window, aligning with Lawrence’s contract situation.”
Rangers Risk Losing Lawrence to Besiktas
Rangers have been focusing on re-establishing their transfer model at Ibrox, aiming to generate significant fees for outgoing players. However, this appears unlikely with Lawrence.
While Lawrence has shown his potential this season, injuries have sidelined him for much of the campaign.
If he leaves on a free transfer, it would be a disappointing outcome for Rangers.
As his contract allows him to negotiate with other clubs, Solskjaer is working to ensure Besiktas are well-positioned to secure his signature.
Over the years, many high-profile players have moved to Turkey for a change of scenery and lucrative contracts.
At 31, Lawrence may see this as an advantageous career move.
For Rangers, this situation highlights the need for reassessment at the management level.
Allowing senior players to leave without a transfer fee is a concerning trend, and the club must implement strategies to avoid such losses in the future.
