As the summer transfer window gains momentum, one rising star at Rangers is suddenly becoming a central figure in one of the most intriguing transfer battles of the season. Multiple top-flight European clubs have reportedly set their sights on the player, prompting increased speculation about his future. Though personal terms were once agreed with one club, that deal has since faltered and opening the door for a bidding war as others prepare formal offers.
Growing Interest Sparks Transfer Frenzy
A once-quiet market for the Rangers forward has erupted into a fierce competition between some of Europe’s most strategically ambitious sides. According to reports from Foot Mercato, both *Everton* and *Rennes* have now entered the chase, looking to secure a player who has not only impressed in the Scottish Premiership but also gained recognition on the international stage.
What began as quiet interest from Ligue 1 soon snowballed into something far bigger. The Scottish club, aware of his rising profile, has been placed in a difficult position. Sell now and cash in while the market is hot? Or hold out in hopes of further development and higher valuations in the near future?
The Initial Agreement That Collapsed
Earlier this summer, it was Lille who appeared closest to landing the Rangers striker. Personal terms were reportedly agreed, and many believed the deal was nearing completion. However, negotiations between the clubs reportedly hit a snag, and no official move was finalized.
This delay has proven costly for Lille. It has allowed Rennes, dealing with the likely departure of forward **Arnaud Kalimuendo, to turn their full attention to the 22-year-old. For Rennes, the forward is now seen as a top-priority signing and a direct replacement for their outbound striker.
Everton Enters the Race For The Player
While Ligue 1 clubs were leading the race, Premier League side Everton have now made their intentions clear. With their own attacking issues to solve following another survival battle last season, the Merseyside club is looking for younger, more dynamic options up front. The Rangers forward ticks multiple boxes: age, mobility, work rate, and a growing international pedigree.
Sources suggest Everton have been tracking him since late last season and are now considering a formal offer. Their entry adds significant weight to the situation, given the Premier League’s visibility and financial strength.
The Player’s Rise at Rangers
The 22-year-old Moroccan striker only recently joined Rangers, but his impact was immediate. Quick on the ball, fearless in the final third, and capable of producing in high-pressure games, he became a fan favourite and caught the attention of scouts beyond the SPFL.
His involvement with the Moroccan national team further elevated his profile. Representing a footballing nation that reached the semi-finals of the last World Cup, his performances in international friendlies and qualifiers added to the buzz around his name.
At Ibrox, he has adapted well to physical football, combining intelligent off-the-ball movement with an aggressive pressing style. Though still refining certain aspects of his finishing, his development curve has been sharp and encouraging.
Why Rennes Are Pushing Hard For The Deal
For Rennes, the urgency is clear. With Kalimuendo likely on his way out and possibly to Tottenham, the club must act fast to avoid starting the season without a proven forward. They see the Rangers striker as someone who can seamlessly slot into their tactical system.
Reports suggest Rennes have already mapped out a plan that includes integrating him as a rotational starter with immediate impact. Club insiders claim that the Rangers man is their number one choice, ahead of other targets in France or Belgium.
The structure of the deal could involve an initial fee with bonuses, depending on performance metrics, European appearances, and goal contributions.
Everton’s Premier League Pitch
Unlike Rennes, Everton’s pitch is not just about replacing a player and it’s about rebuilding a club. After back-to-back seasons spent flirting with relegation, they’re prioritizing young, energetic talents capable of helping Sean Dyche reshape the attacking philosophy.
The Scottish league has long served as a talent pipeline for English clubs. Players like Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson made similar jumps. For the Rangers forward, this could be a compelling trajectory especially given Everton’s promise of immediate minutes and Premier League exposure.
Potential Transfer Fee and Contract Projections
While no official numbers have been released, estimates place the player’s valuation at €8–10 million, depending on performance clauses. Rangers, who have a history of selling smart and reinvesting well, are unlikely to block the move if a favorable offer lands.
The player’s camp is reportedly open to exploring either destination even though one source noted that the Premier League remains a dream for the young Moroccan. That could tip the scale in Everton’s favour if contract discussions begin soon.
The Bigger Picture: Rangers’ Transfer Strategy at Stake
For Rangers, this situation is emblematic of a broader issue: holding onto rising talents while building a competitive squad for domestic and European campaigns. Losing the 22-year-old so early in his Rangers journey would sting but the financial injection could allow for multiple key reinforcements across the pitch.
Moreover, the club may be forced to explore immediate replacements if the bidding war intensifies. Names in Ligue 1, Eredivisie, and even the MLS have reportedly come under consideration.
What’s Next? As Timing Will Be Key To a Potential Deal
With pre-season friendlies underway and the competitive season approaching, clubs are racing against time. Both Rennes and Everton want a deal done *before the end of July, to allow their new striker to integrate with the squad.
As of now, Rangers are awaiting formal offers. Once those come in, negotiations are expected to move quickly. Scouts, agents, and executives are all mobilized, and fans are watching closely.
Conclusion
The transfer saga involving Rangers’ breakout striker is only heating up. What began as a quiet agreement with Lille has transformed into a full-scale war between Premier League power and Ligue 1 strategy.
Whichever club secures his signature is likely to gain not just a quality attacker but one of Europe’s most exciting young prospects. Stay tuned, because this could be one of the biggest under-the-radar stories of the summer window.
