Rangers pursuit of Bright Osayi-Samuel may have ended with the news that he is set to sign for Fenerbahce, however, there remains a player in the same league – with better numbers – who could be targeted this transfer window.
Just two years ago Isaac Mbenza cost Huddersfield Town £11.25million when he signed from Montpellier after a successful season long loan, agreeing to a two-year contract at the time, what this means is that the Belgian Under-21 cap is now available to discuss a pre-contract agreement and should be on Ross Wilson’s list of potential targets.
After failing to hit the heights last season, Mbenza – currently valued at £5.4million – headed out on loan to Bongani Zungu’s parent club Amiens but made just three appearances, however, a change of manager and a fresh approach saw the 24-year old become a key player for Carlos Corberan.
The 6ft 2 inch forward has over a goal or assist every two games in terms of minutes played and when he initially signed for Huddersfield in 2018, manager at the time, David Wagner spoke about the qualities he would bring to them as they spent big following their Premier League survival:
“Isaac is a very exciting player, and this is a great deal for Huddersfield Town for a player with such ability and potential.
“You do not play for Belgium at Under-21 level unless you have some outstanding attributes.
“He’s a very quick winger with a direct style of play, which is exactly what we were looking for. As you can see from his last season at Montpellier, he has a real eye for goal too.”
What’s not to like? There is definitely room in our squad for an upgrade in his position with Jordan Jones and Brandon Barker not really trusted to step into Ryan Kent’s boots when he needs a breather, when you add this to his experience of both England and France’s top flights plus his time in the Championship, he should be able to cope with the demands of the Scottish Premiership.
When would you like to see a forward brought in?
Now
In the summer
With Rangers continuously linked with possible pre-contract deals, Mbenza should be one that is near the top of the list, there isn’t a box that he doesn’t tick, and he wouldn’t cost a penny.