Gers could land their version of Real Madrid regular in Croatia international swoop
08/22/2024 05:30 AM
When Rangers were first linked with signing Jefte, it looked like Ridvan Yilmaz was heading out the door.
Instead, the Turkey international secured his place as first-choice left-back and Borna Barisic ended his six-year spell at Ibrox.
Philippe Clement's squad isn't quite where he wants it to be, however, the manager was quick to play down suggestions of needing to sign a new left-back when Ridvan was stretchered off against Dynamo Kyiv instead putting his trust in Jefte, Robbie Fraser and Dujon Sterling.
Domagoj Bradaric could be Rangers version of Ferland Mendy
This made it surprising when Rangers were said to be in talks with Croatia international Domagoj Bradaric in a loan deal with an option to buy.
At 24-years old, Bradaric certainly fits the profile of Nils Koppen's player trading model, however, on this occasion, the player isn't needed.
What is encouraging though, is that the Salernitana defender compares favourably with one of the best full-backs in the world in Ferland Mendy of Real Madrid.
Using Data MB's comparison model, Bradaric shares similar traits to Mendy in that he is an effective ball carrier and wins more duels than he loses.
Two key qualities for a Rangers full-back.
Do Rangers really need a left-back after Jefte impresses?
As things stand though, Jefte's display against St Johnstone suggests that Clement was right to trust his summer acquisition and has tipped him for bigger things:
"Jefte played a very good and dominant game. Big congratulations to our recruitment team for finding a player of that level at that age for that price. In two months, I think his value will be much bigger than for the amount that we bought him."
When the 20-year old signed from Fluminense, Rangers only had to pay a fee in the region of £800,000.
This is why shopping in new markets makes more sense because, had Jefte been coming from Europe, he probably would have cost an awful lot more given the Champions League money that dominates and determines transfer fees.
Clement, when Jefte signed, was clearly excited to land a player with such potential:
"Jefte is an exciting young defender, and I am delighted that he has joined our squad so early in the summer period. He has already shown he is a player of great quality and potential and I am confident he can play a big part in our squad moving forward – I look forward to working with him in the months to come."
In pre-season, Jefte looked raw, very raw.
In possession, there were signs that he could add more pace, and he could also deliver an accurate cross.
Injury saw the Brazilian move up to the wing and his dribbling and powerful running saw him become immediately popular with fans.
Jefte looks like he has settled into life at Rangers quicker than expected and, if his display against St Johnstone is anything to go by, Ridvan might struggle to get his place back.
