Rangers stance on making transfer move for star Celtic are 'closest' to signing as signature race heats up
A good old fashioned Old Firm transfer race has been established
Rangers have made a move for Hungarian midfielder Milan Vitalis, however reportedly it’s Celtic who are ‘closest’ to signing him.
The 24-year old, who has also been linked with Aberdeen and multiple Czech clubs, helped Gyori ETO to the Hungarian top flight title last season, as they pipped Celtic-linked boss Robbie Keane’s Ferencvaros to the championship on the final day. Vitalis notched 10 goals and six assists in all competitions from attacking midfield and is now the subject of interest from both sides of the Old Firm.
At Ibrox, the summer rebuild is well and truly underway already following the signing of Lawrence Shankland. Adding a player like Vitalis would help bolster the options in attacking midfield, where currently Thelo Aasgaard is the only real option. For Celtic, they’re yet to make any moves in the window, as the board are yet to announce whether manager Martin O’Neill is staying or going.
Celtic ‘closest’ to Vitalis’ signature
According to Goal.com: “We understand that there was previously interest from Czech clubs in Vitalis, but these inquiries have since faded into the background. As things stand, the Scottish side seems to be the strongest, with Celtic being the closest to signing the Győr midfielder.
“The Glasgow club could represent a significant step forward for Vitalis, both professionally and in his career. Celtic are regulars on the international cup scene, so the midfielder could prove himself at a higher level, which could even have a positive impact on his role in the Hungarian national team.”
Gyor have already lost title-winning boss Balazs Borbely, who is set to become Keane’s successor at title rivals Ferencvaros in a shock move. The Hungarian champions are now preparing for the challenge of keeping their key men going into next season’s Champions League qualifiers. Former Celtic and Spurs man Keane remains one of the favourites to take over from O’Neill, should he leave the club or go upstairs in the summer.
Rangers ramp up transfer pursuit
According to Rangers News: “Rangers are said to be hot on the heels of Hungary international Milan Vitalis this summer. Vitalis is attracting genuine interest from clubs across multiple countries and leagues this summer. For Rangers, the picture that emerges is one of genuine competition. This is not a straightforward pursuit, and the club will need to move decisively if they are to win the race against both their domestic rivals and clubs from further afield.”
As the race for Vitalis heats up between the Glasgow sides and the Dons, whoever, if any, are successful in signing Vitalis would be putting down an early marker in the transfer window. Also to be taken into consideration is that the midfielder only has a year left on his contract, leaving the door open for a potential cut-price deal for any potential suitor.