Rangers see bid 'rejected' for winger compared to Mohamed Salah after already 'missing out' last summer
Rangers are one of several European clubs understood to be ‘keeping tabs’ on the Olympics star
Rangers have seen an opening bid for left-sided Egyptian winger Ibrahim Adel booted out by Cairo-based Pyramids FC, according to various reports.
The 23-year-old was the standout for his nation at this summer’s Olympics in Paris, during which he scored both goals against Spain in the 2-1 group stage victory. Adel led Egypt to the semi-final and within touching distance of a medal but were defeated by hosts’ France.
That form has attracted plenty of interest from clubs across Europe, according to local outlet Kora Plus, who claim the Ibrox side made their move to sign the highly-rated playmaker by approaching his current club with an offer. However, the Gers’ advances are said to have been turned down with the proposal that was put forward deemed insufficient.
The same publication report the Light Blues are “still hoping to sign” Adel and will return with an improved bid before Friday night’s deadline as manager Philippe Clement scrambles to apply the finish touches on his summer rebuild. The Belgian faces a race against the clock to bring in new signings after suggesting that players could come and go over the next few days.
Speaking after Saturday’s 6-0 Premiership win over Ross County at Hampden Park, Clement said: “I expect a busy week but more busy with incoming and a few outgoing. Outgoing, not for players who were in the squad today, that’s clear. More outgoings for players who weren’t in the squad.”
Rangers were said to have “missed out” on Adel’s signature during Michael Beale’s tenure last summer after he was named player of the tournament at the under-23 African Cup of Nations. TEAMTalk stated at the time that Belgian duo Anderlecht and Club Brugge were tracking him along with English side West Ham United.
Described as a ‘special player’ in his homeland, Adel was previously compared to Liverpool hero Mohamed Salah. He’s viewed as one of his country’s most exciting prospects since Salah shot to Premier League stardom