Exclusive: Rangers Given Opportunity to Sign ‘Extremely Powerful’ £2.5m Midfielder, But One Key Factor Blocks Deal

Rangers’ limited financial resources have put a damper on their January transfer plans, including the potential signing of NK Osijek’s Marko Soldo.

Despite earlier optimism, CEO Patrick Stewart has downplayed the need for winter signings, and even the relatively modest fee of £2.5 million for the Croatia Under-21 star appears out of reach.

In December, Rangers News reported that a deal for Soldo was possible, but the club’s financial constraints have since dashed those hopes.

Rangers Unable to Afford Marko Soldo

Football correspondent Graeme Bailey recently confirmed that Rangers were offered the opportunity to sign Soldo, but the deal was deemed too expensive unless the club could raise funds, potentially through the sale of players like Cyriel Dessers. For now, any negotiations are on hold.

Interestingly, Soldo himself seems content with the situation.

Speaking to Glas Slavonije, the 21-year-old midfielder expressed no urgency to leave Osijek, where he signed a long-term contract just a few months ago.

“All these stories about interest from foreign clubs are just confirmation for me that I had a quality half-season,” Soldo said.

“I am investing in myself, working hard, and [this] is gradually paying off.

“I have really settled in well here. The team, working conditions, and environment are excellent, so I have no reason to think about leaving.

The interest from foreign clubs is motivation to continue improving.”

Soldo also noted that Dinamo Zagreb, his former club, holds a clause allowing them to re-sign him by mid-March, but he remains focused on his current role at Osijek.

Soldo’s Development at Osijek

Under the guidance of coach Federico Coppitelli, Soldo has transitioned from a deep-lying midfielder to an effective attacking presence, capable of playing as a number eight or ten.

Standing at 6ft tall with impressive athleticism, he has reached career highs this season with six goals and four assists.

While he hinted at a potential summer departure, Rangers’ ability to pursue him will depend on their financial situation at that time.

Other Transfer Targets Out of Reach

Rangers are also facing setbacks with other targets. Leon Belcar opted to remain at NK Varaždin, while Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka is reportedly in talks with Borussia Dortmund.

This narrowing pool of options leaves Dundee’s Lyall Cameron as a realistic addition.

Reports suggest Rangers are leading the race to sign Cameron, but a deal may not materialize until the summer, possibly as a pre-contract agreement similar to Connor Barron’s situation.

A Challenging Transfer Window

As the January window progresses, Rangers find themselves constrained by financial realities.

Unless funds are raised through player sales, significant additions seem unlikely.

For now, the focus may shift to identifying summer targets or exploring pre-contract arrangements, as the club navigates a challenging transfer period.