Rangers are on the verge of signing Brazilian left-back Jefte from Fluminense, pending the approval of his current loan club APOEL Nicosia. The 20-year-old has impressed in Cyprus this season, scoring three goals and providing four assists in 20 appearances.
A touch of Brazilian flair for Rangers
Jefte is a versatile player who can operate as a left-back, left midfielder or left winger. He has a flair for attacking and dribbling, as well as a good cross and shot. He is expected to add some quality and depth to Rangers’ left flank, where Borna Barisic has been the undisputed starter for the past few seasons.
Jefte started his career at Fluminense, one of the most successful clubs in Brazil, where he joined the youth academy in 2017. He signed a four-year contract in 2021, but never made a senior appearance for the club. He was loaned out to APOEL Nicosia in 2023, where he extended his Fluminense deal until 2026.
APOEL hold the key to Jefte’s transfer
Rangers have agreed a deal with Fluminense for Jefte, but they still need to get the green light from APOEL, who have the option to buy him at the end of his loan spell. The Cypriot club are reluctant to let him go, as he has been one of their best players this season. However, they may be tempted by a lucrative offer from Rangers, who are keen to wrap up the transfer before the January window closes.
Jefte has also agreed personal terms with Rangers, and is eager to join the Scottish champions. He is attracted by the prospect of playing under Philippe Clement, who has a reputation for developing young talents. He is also looking forward to playing in the Champions League, where Rangers have qualified for the knockout stages.
Jefte follows Diomande as Rangers’ second January signing
Jefte is set to become Rangers’ second signing of the January transfer window, following the arrival of Mohamed Diomande from Ivory Coast. The 18-year-old midfielder joined Rangers from ASEC Mimosas, after impressing in the African Youth Championship. He is regarded as one of the most promising prospects in Africa, and has been compared to Yaya Toure.
Rangers have been active in the transfer market, as they look to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season. They are currently top of the Scottish Premiership, 12 points clear of second-placed Celtic, and have a game in hand. They are also in the last 16 of the Champions League, where they will face Borussia Dortmund.
