Rangers are close to signing striker Kevin Kelsy in a deal worth £9 million as the Scottish transfer window enters its final hours. The 22-year-old Venezuelan is en route to Europe for a medical. Philippe Clement's side are pushing to strengthen their attack ahead of their next fixture, an away match against Hibernian on December 5th.
The urgency for a new forward has been heightened by the serious ACL injury suffered by Youssef Chermiti earlier this month. Manager Derek McInnes has been vocal about the need to address the issue. "For ones in, it's been a while now since Youssef went down against Hibs, so we're really keen and eager to get the striker in that we want," McInnes said. He added, "Again, it's taken a bit longer, but it's not reasons the club are guilty for."
Kevin Kelsy is a 22-year-old Venezuelan international who plays as a striker for MLS side Portland Timbers. The reported £9 million fee shows the club's commitment to solving their attacking needs. His potential arrival comes at a key moment for Rangers. Adding a fresh goal threat could be vital as they look to close a five-point gap to leaders Celtic in the title race.
While Rangers work on the Kelsy deal, their city rivals are also active. Celtic are close to signing 19-year-old Dutch midfielder Joel van den Berg from PSV Eindhoven for a fee of £3.4 million. The move addresses a need in central midfield created by the sale of Arne Engels to West Ham. Celtic are also keen on Crystal Palace's 22-year-old Northern Ireland international Justin Devenny, who can operate at left-back, a position where Kieran Tierney is currently the main option.
The final day of the window could see further activity involving Scottish clubs. Celtic have also been linked with a move for Quinten Timber, the 25-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder and twin brother of Jurrien Timber. Another name in the frame is Stuttgart winger Jamie Leweling. The 25-year-old Germany international, who featured once at this summer's World Cup, is reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool, Everton, and Roma. In other news, Crystal Palace are determined to keep goalkeeper Dean Henderson despite a bid from Nottingham Forest for the 29-year-old.
Rangers will hope to finalise the Kelsy transfer swiftly to integrate him into a squad. The immediate focus after the window shuts will shift to the trip to face Hibernian on December 5th.
