Hernandez 2.0 could be rationale for Gers exit transfer talks
01/28/2025 03:00 AM
The reason why Philippe Clement is currently having to turn to the kids on his bench is because Rangers recruitment simply hasn't been good enough in recent years.
The squad is bloated with expensive players who are either sitting in the stands at Ibrox or sitting on the bench every other week, it's little wonder the manager sees the academy as a preferred source for fresh talent.
In the summer, Rangers started a reset in terms of the player trading model with Jefte now reported to be in talks over a move to Chelsea.
Why Chelsea could be targeting Rangers left-back Jefte
Having been signed from Fluminense for around £680,000, the young Brazilian, branded “brilliant” by Clyde 1 pundit Gordon Dalziel has gradually improved throughout his time at the club, but this hasn't stopped a few eyebrows from being raised over the story that originated in his homeland.
Using Data MB's player comparison tool, it becomes a lot clearer.
This is only Jefte's second season as a senior professional with his statistics making the 21-year old an attractive proposition for a club that targets youth using data led recruitment.
Theo Hernandez is widely regarded as one of the finest left-backs in world football with the AC Milan defender racking up 36 caps for France.
Comparing Jefte's current season to Hernandez over the last two for Milan and it gives a picture of the type of player that the Rangers No.22 could become with the right development.
Compared to other markets, Chelsea will also know that Jefte wouldn't command the sort of fees that a similar profile of player from one of the top five leagues, or even England's second tier would.
Could Jefte force his way into Chelsea’s starting XI?
Should Chelsea follow up their initial interest with a formal bid, the chances of going from Rangers’ starting XI to the Premier League outfit's would appear to be slim.
Using the same model to compare the Gers left-back to Marc Cucurella tells a different story though.
On every metric apart from defensive actions, Jefte is more positive and, clearly, more competent when it comes to the attacking side of the game.
There is a similar athleticism between the pair and Rangers can point to Calvin Bassey as an example of what sort of progress a relatively inexperienced player can make, if they have shown that they have tools to take a step up in levels.
Another record fee and Nils Koppen's stock would rise as high as Jefte's.
