Vital Rangers can exclusively reveal that PFC Sochi are holding out for £8.5 million for the services of Mateo Cassierra.
The reported Rangers target is almost certain to leave the Russian Premier Liga club this Summer following a very productive season on the pitch for the Colombian in which he recorded an impressive 14 goals and six assists from 22 appearances.
The ongoing conflict relating to the Russia-Ukraine crisis has resulted in UEFA sanctions meaning that, “there will once again be no Russian clubs in the Champions League, Europa League or Europa Conference League next season.” Sochi, in particular, will feel this acutely as their second place finish would have had them on course for Champions League qualification under different circumstances.
In football terms, it will likely lead to an exodus of foreign talent across the Russian top flight with the unpredictable and disastrous consequences of war having wider implications on the Russian game but firstly and more importantly, the heavy toll of human suffering continues.
Primed
As for Rangers and Cassierra, this is an intriguing link. A Scotsman report last week claimed that contact had been made between the clubs regarding the availability of the striker. The 25-year old, formerly of Belenenses and Ajax is now primed for another move across Europe, with speculation increasing that the destination could be Ibrox.
During the player’s development time in Amsterdam, he is said to have worked under Dave Vos, Gio van Bronckhorst’s assistant coach and with his first team breakthrough at the ArenA, he would have became known to the current Rangers boss whilst Alfredo Morelos would provide another friendly face and resource for his compatriot.
In order for the move to materialise though, significant money will need to be spent with Sochi holding out for serious money, initially at least.
An excellent source very close to the Russian club told VR:
“It is most likely that Mateo Cassierra will leave the club and the price will be €10 million (approximately £8.5mil GBP).”
Whilst there is an expectation from Rangers supporters that relatively significant money will be spent to acquire the quality required for the next step including the Champions League push, that sort of fee would be scrutinised and certainly negotiated if formal business commences, especially for a player with only 12 months remaining on his contract.
A new striker is among a few additions expected at Ibrox over the Summer.
How will Rangers be able to sign a player who plays for a Russian team when all business with Russia is supposed to be under sanctions.??
Can still sign players, especially non-Russian. Those in the last 6 months were able to leave in January for nothing.