Former Rangers star 'at the centre of a growing transfer battle' as path to Champions League paved for ace
The former Rangers star has impressed in the Saudi Pro League since leaving Ibrox.
A former Rangers star could be bound for the Champions League next season - as the latest update on his future emerges.
It was reported last month that Fashion Sakala was a transfer target for Ligue 1 side RC Lens, who are in a title fight with PSG, and are on course to have a place at Europe’s top table next season. Sakala was a popular player at Ibrox as he scored 24 times with 15 assists at the Light Blues. He moved to Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League in 2023 but his deal there is expiring and interest is mounting.
There are options to stay in Saudi but financial packages have proven difficult to broker for his services. European options are also out there for the forward and the latest has been delivered on who may snap him up this summer.
Who will Fashion Sakala sign for in January transfer window?
Transfer journalist Rudy Galetti claims: “Fashion Sakala remains at the centre of a growing transfer battle ahead of the summer, with clubs from Saudi Arabia and Europe competing for his signature as a free agent . RC Lens continue to push offering the possibility of returning to Europe, including participation in the UEFA Champions League.
“At the same time, the forward, currently at Al Fayha, is attracting strong attention in Saudi Arabia after another productive season there. Among the most active suitors is Al Taawoun, who have identified Sakala as their number one target and tried to move early to secure a deal.
“Negotiations are stalled due to financial differences, as the club could not meet the demands set by the player’s representatives. Despite this setback, interest from Saudi Arabia remains strong. Both Al-Ettifaq and Al-Shabab are closely monitoring the situation and could step in with concrete proposals.”
Why did Fashion Sakala leave Rangers
Speaking on his exit from Rangers under then-head coach Michael Beale, Sakala said: “He didn’t talk to me about anything or any transfers. He clearly showed me that I wasn’t part of his plans without telling me anything. The time I received a call from Mick Beale was when he told me not to come to the training ground anymore.
“That was hard for me because I didn’t do anything. Players leave clubs but they are not told not to go to the training ground, not told not to be part of the team. You can have clubs that can come in for you but still, you are training with the team. I stayed without training with the club for almost two weeks.”
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