Rangers praised for 'clever business' that could see 'dramatic' profit, there's a catch
06/26/2024 12:00 PM
Rangers have signed several exciting young players already in this transfer window as Philippe Clement leads the club in a new direction.
Jefte, Oscar Cortes, Clintion Nsiala and Connor Barron have all put pen to paper and joined the manager’s new squad with Hamza Igamane expected to be next.
The Morocco youth international has a growing reputation with former Hibernian midfielder and compatriot Merouane Zemmama telling The Scottish Sun why Rangers could face an almost immediate dilemma.
Hamza Igamane catch to Rangers transfer bonus revealed
Igamane will be hoping to repeat the efforts of Alfredo Morelos when he first moved to Scotland and dislodge his senior colleagues.
Rumours are suggesting that Cyriel Dessers could be on his way out and that a transfer request has been made by the Nigeria international which would mean just Danilo as his current competition.
The 21-year old's first chance to impress on the big stage might not even be for Rangers with ex-Hibee Zemmama revealing that Clement could be without his new striker before the season even kicks off:
"Morocco have qualified for the Olympics and if they do well it's inevitable their players will be watched by bigger clubs.
"If Hamza plays in the Olympics and does well, the valuation of him will change dramatically.
"It could turn out that Rangers have done some really clever business by signing him now.
"Qualifying for the Olympics is a big thing in Morocco. This is the first time the country have ever qualified in the last three competitions.
"Hamza was in the squad for the African Under-23 Cup of Nations last year.
"He went on as a sub in the semi-final, which was played in his club Far Rabat's stadium, but he got injured, had to be substituted and missed the final.
"But Morocco still went on to win the trophy and qualify for the Olympics. After they won the cup the squad were presented to King Mohammed VI to be congratulated.
"The squad going to the Olympics hasn't been named yet, but I'd be surprised if Hamza isn't in it."
How long could Igamane be missing for?
Morroco's first game is on the 24th of July with the final on the 9th of August.
The last group game is on the 30th July in a condensed tournament due to the international football calendar.
To give an idea of how this could intere with Rangers preparations, the Champions League qualifiers are on the 6/7th of August and 13/14th August.
The domestic season will kick off on the 3/4th of August.
The Olympics might not be as highly regarded by European nations as it is by African and South American countries, however, it is still a high profile event with millions of eyes watching.
As an Under-23 tournament – three over age players are allowed – it is a showcase for those who might be the next big thing.
Rangers will be hoping that Igamane is one of those who lights up the tournament to bump up his valuation, but that, when the proper football kicks off, he's back where he belongs.
