Rangers full-back Ridvan Yilmaz is within touching distance of a loan move to Serie A side Verona, according to Italian reports.
Transfer guru Nicolo Schira reports that Yilmaz is just ‘one step away’ from a move to Verona.
READ: Who is Arda Guler? The 18-year-old ‘Turkish Messi’ Wanted by Europe’s Biggest Clubs
This comes after speculation suggested the Glasgow giants were prepared to sell the Turkish international to fund manager Philippe Clement’s squad overhaul, particularly at left-back where Borna Barisic’s contract ends in the summer.
While initial reports indicated a £3 million transfer fee, the latest twist suggests a loan deal with a twist. Yilmaz could join Verona on a temporary basis with an option to buy, which would automatically become an obligation if the Italian club manages to avoid relegation.
Verona currently occupy the 18th spot in Serie A, meaning they are very much in the relegation battle. They sit just one point behind Cagliari in the safety zone, so their fate is firmly in their own hands.
Despite the impending move, Yilmaz remains with the Rangers squad in La Manga for their training camp. Whether he plays in their closed-door friendly against Hertha Berlin tomorrow remains to be seen, as his future hangs in the balance.
This loan deal, if completed, could benefit both parties. Rangers can free up funds for Clement’s targets while Yilmaz gets regular playing time in a competitive league.
However, the relegation clause adds an intriguing layer of uncertainty, making Yilmaz’s future destination dependent on Verona’s ability to survive the drop.
The coming days will reveal whether Yilmaz leaves Ibrox on loan, with Rangers fans anticipating the final chapter in this ongoing transfer saga.