Rangers are close to finalizing a deal for Everton forward Youssef Chermiti.
Following the departure of Hamza Igamane to Lille for £10.5 million after his sudden fall-out last weekend, Rangers have moved quickly to bolster their squad. Bojan Miovski has already joined the club on a four-year deal from Girona, providing a much-needed attacking option.
Chermiti has previously worked with Rangers’ sporting director Kevin Thelwell at Everton, and the two are now set to reunite in Scotland.
Rangers Nearing Youssef Chermiti Transfer
Rangers are on the brink of completing a deadline-day move for Chermiti, further strengthening their attack for manager Russell Martin. According to a report by the Daily Record on August 30, the Gers are set to sign Chermiti permanently, contrary to earlier speculations of a loan deal. The fee for the 21-year-old Portugal Under-21 international is reported to be around £8 million.
Russell Martin Under Pressure at Rangers
Despite being in charge for only a few months, Martin is already facing intense pressure after a disappointing start to the season. Rangers have drawn their first three league games and were eliminated from the Champions League by Club Brugge in a humiliating defeat.
With the team struggling, Martin desperately needs his new forwards to make an immediate impact if he is to keep his job. Fans are already voicing their frustrations, and calls for his dismissal are growing.
Chermiti’s Everton Struggles
Chermiti has had a tough time breaking into the senior team at Everton, failing to score in 24 appearances across all competitions. While his transfer fee might seem high given his lack of goals, the hope is that he will adapt quickly to the pace of Scottish football. If he can settle in and start scoring, the fee will be seen as a worthwhile investment, but there’s also the risk he could become a costly flop.
Given that Scottish football tends to be less fast-paced than the Premier League, Chermiti may find it easier to adjust, especially if Miovski takes on the main striker role and he serves as a backup.
With Celtic on the horizon for Sunday, the upcoming match could prove crucial in determining whether Martin keeps his job or if the team will be under new leadership after the international break.
