Rangers striker Cedric Itten has left the club on loan to join Greuther Furth in the German Bundesliga.
In what is an excellent move for the Swiss international, this now opens the door to the prospect of a late replacement coming in later today.
The news has been confirmed by the club, in a switch that is needed for the striker to get regular game time as he has been unable to get a sustained run in the team since his move from St Gallen last August.
Furth have reported that they have a purchase option, as part of the deal.
Cedric Itten has today joined Bundesliga side Greuther Furth on a season-long loan: https://t.co/HpP6wwO5Qp
Everyone at Rangers wishes Cedric well in Germany. pic.twitter.com/7GkyYTBuo0
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) August 31, 2021
Itten definitely has ability but after his first season, a defined style or role for the frontman at Ibrox still in doubt.
What is not is the impact he made last season, particularly as a sub, including that vital late goal at home against Motherwell to get the Gers back into the game.
Playing at a higher level in Germany will provide a challenge to the Swiss and it is a move that will be keenly observed.
Replacement
Does this move mean we will see a late arrival at Ibrox? Where would a replacement fit it?
With Alfredo Morelos, Kemar Roofe, Fashion Sakala and Jermain Defoe already in situ, as well as the likes of Scott Wright who can cover, what sort of quality would be coming in to play a bit part role?
Going with what we have and a leaner squad would appear to be the better option, but it provides a bit of intrigue as we head later into the last day of the transfer window.
There will be one or two more updates to come at Ibrox before the night is done.