Rangers star's European transfer deal 'on the verge of collapse' as contract dispute breeds race against clock

Rangers centre back John Souttar could be staying at the club as his deal to Greek side Aris Thessaloniki is ‘on the verge of collapse’.

Despite the Scottish transfer window closing earlier this month, Aris still have until 10pm on Tuesday night to complete business. The club have been in negotiations with Rangers for Souttar over the past week and are keen to get the deal over the line.

The 29-year old has been left out in the cold for the first half of the season and has been linked with a transfer elsewhere for months now. EFL sides Leicester City and Sheffield United expressed interest but neither came to fruition.

What is the contract dispute that’s putting the Souttar deal at risk?

According to Football Insider, the deal is in jeopardy because of a disagreement between Souttar and the club. They claim: “The 29-year-old (Souttar) has already agreed a deal to join the Greek giants, but a dispute regarding his contract situation at Ibrox has put the move on the verge of collapse. Aris are still hopeful that the deal could get done, but they now face a race against time, with their transfer window set to close at 10pm on Tuesday. Rangers are more than happy for Souttar to leave the club, but sources say that unless a compromise can be reached regarding his compensation payment, then he will be forced to stay put.”

Since his move from Hearts in June 2022, Souttar has been a regular at the back for Rangers when fit, making 132 appearances for the club. However since new manager Derek McInnes’ arrival in June, he’s been left out in the cold, with fellow central defenders Emmanuel Fernandez, Olwethu Makhanya and Ben Godfrey ahead of him in the selection pecking order. A move away from Ibrox could also be vital for his Scotland career, on a day where new boss Sebastian Pocognoli picks his first ever squad in his new role.

What has McInnes said about Souttar’s situation?

While the manager believes it’s better for both parties if Souttar departs, he is equally adamant that he could play a role in the team if he stayed. Last week, he said: “I think he still can (play a part in the squad), but the likelihood is that John has been told his long-term future would be best served elsewhere. He still has opportunities to move.

“There are a few windows still open in Europe and there are a few possibilities for him. I don't want to speculate too much, but there are one or two options he's keen on that seem to be gathering traction. For him, going somewhere and playing regular football might be the best option. But if nothing materialises, then of course we'll honour his contract and he'll come back into things.”

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