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Romanian international attacker in Rangers alert – but there’s a problem

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Image for Romanian international attacker in Rangers alert – but there’s a problem

Reports in the Turkish media have linked Rangers with an approach for Galatasaray’s Romanian international attacker Olimpiu Morutan.

The 22-year old is contracted to the Istanbul club until 2026 but it has been reported that he could be on the move next month, as a potential alternative to Ianis Hagi at Ibrox.

Morutan is usually deployed as central attacker behind the striker as well as being able to play as a wide forward, with 12 appearances bringing three goals and two assists so far this term in the Super Lig.

As reported by the Glasgow Times on Friday:

“Turkish media reports suggest that Morutan of Galatasaray is a potential player who could be on his way to Glasgow.”

“The playmaker is a Romania internationalist. He will of course know Hagi very well from his time in the national team set-up.”

“It’s claimed that Rangers will aim to do a similar-style deal for Morutan as they did with Hagi in 2019.”

“It’s reported in Turkish media that they will look to obtain him on a six-month loan, with an option to buy in the summer.”

Problem

With this report the main issue is that it doesn’t quite stand up to scrutiny – a move for Morutan would be like a having a second Hagi, such is their similarities in player profile. Some would argue that the latter could be sold in the coming months so it doesn’t make much sense to bring in a carbon copy.

As a Galatasaray regular with several years left on his current deal, his club would be wanting a fee (sooner the better given the plummeting value of Turkish Lira) rather than sanctioning an initial loan deal.

All in, this suggested deal doesn’t appear likely for several reasons – at VitalRangers we believe Morutan doesn’t fir the profile currently under consideration by Gio van Bronckhorst and Ross Wilson.

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