Former Rangers and Sheffield Wednesday boss eyeing reunion with Ibrox star as fresh transfer bid received
Winger previously described his former coach as a ‘father figure’ - but Rangers are in a strong negotiating position
Former Rangers boss Danny Rohl is eyeing a potential reunion with Djeidi Gassama after RB Salzburg made an approach for the winger as the summer transfer window enters its final days.
Rohl, who left Ibrox in June to take charge of the Austrian side, is understood to be keen on bringing one of his former players to the club. According to well-respected French journalist Santi Aouna, Salzburg have submitted an offer for Gassama, adding another club to an increasingly competitive race for the 22-year-old's signature.
The potential move has an obvious personal connection. Rohl and Gassama previously worked together at Sheffield Wednesday, where the German coach played an important role in the wide man’s development. Gassama later followed Rohl to Glasgow, joining the Light Blues last summer in a deal worth around £2.2 million.
Gassama previously spoke in glowing terms about his relationship with Rohl. During their time at Rangers, the Mauritania international described his former coach as a “father figure”, crediting him with improving aspects of his game both in addition to complementing Rohl's training methods and tactical ideas.
That familiarity could play an important factor behind Salzburg's interest. Rohl is aware exactly what Gassama can offer. The versatile attacker is capable of operating on either flank as well as in more central attacking positions, while his pace, close control and ability to beat defenders make him an attractive option for a Salzburg side looking to add more quality in the final third.
Aberdeen display strengthens case for interested clubs
Gassama's latest performance will only have strengthened the case for interested suitors. He played the full 90 minutes in Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at Pittodrie and won the penalty from which captain Lawrence Shankland converted the decisive goal. It was a timely reminder of the impact Gassama can have, having flattered to deceive early in the campaign.
However, Salzburg are not along in keeping tabs on Gassama. Ligue 1 giants Monaco have reportedly maintained an interest in the winger, while Serie A clubs including Monza and Parma have also been linked with moves before Thursday’s transfer deadline.
Rangers are also under no immediate pressure to sell. Gassama is contracted at Ibrox until 2029 to ensure the club are in a strong negotiating position. While his form has been inconsistent at times, his recent contribution against the Dons demonstrated why there remains significant interest in his services.
For Rohl, meanwhile, the opportunity to reunite with a player he knows intimately could be particularly appealing as he continues to reshape his Salzburg squad. The Austrians appointed the 37-year-old on a three-year contract and tasked him with restoring the team to the top of their domestic league.
Whether Salzburg can convince Rangers to sell remains uncertain, but Rohl's reported pursuit of Gassama adds an intriguing subplot to the final days of the transfer window. If a deal can be agreed, the pair could soon find themselves working together for a third time — this time with Salzburg hoping their previous relationship can translate into success in Austria.
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