Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne has reportedly expressed keen interest in acquiring the services of Cyriel Dessers, who currently plays for Scottish Premiership giants Rangers, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.
The Nigerian forward has experienced a dip in prominence within the Rangers squad, primarily due to the emergence of young striker Hamza Igamane, who has netted an impressive five goals in his last six appearances.
Adding to Dessers' challenges, Brazilian forward Danilo has recently returned from injury, further limiting opportunities for the 30-year-old. Despite these setbacks, Dessers has managed to register 12 goals across all competitions this season, showcasing glimpses of his goal-scoring ability since joining Rangers in the summer of 2023.
Reports from French sports outlet Le Republicain Sportif suggest that Saint-Etienne is actively monitoring Dessers’ situation. The Ligue 1 club, currently aiming to bolster their attacking options, views the Nigerian international as a viable target to strengthen their squad.
Rangers are reportedly willing to entertain offers for Dessers, setting an asking price slightly under £3.5 million. With a contract at Ibrox extending until 2027, any potential deal would involve a significant financial commitment from Saint-Etienne.
Struggles at Rangers
Dessers’ tenure at Rangers has been mixed. While his goal tally remains respectable, his performances have not consistently endeared him to fans, particularly when compared to the dynamism of Igamane and the experienced Danilo. Before moving to Scotland, Dessers enjoyed successful stints at clubs like Feyenoord, Genk, and Heracles Almelo, where his goal-scoring exploits earned him international recognition with the Nigerian national team.
Saint-Etienne’s Ambitions
Saint-Etienne’s interest aligns with their strategy to rebuild and compete more effectively in Ligue 1. The club is reportedly exploring multiple attacking options to reinforce their frontline, with Dessers identified as a prime target. His versatility and track record in various European leagues make him an appealing prospect for the French outfit.
Whether a deal materializes will likely depend on negotiations between the two clubs and the player’s willingness to make the move to Ligue 1.
Oluwayemi Omolagba