Rangers transfers: How plan to replace Emmanuel Fernandez could boost Arsenal’s pursuit

Premier League champions Arsenal have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Emmanuel Fernandez from Rangers this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles defender has been heavily linked with a move away from Ibrox following a breakthrough campaign with the Scottish giants last season.

Fernandez enjoyed an outstanding debut season after joining the Gers last summer. His impressive performances earned him the club’s Men’s Player of the Season award, while he was also named in the PFA Scotland Team of the Season.

His displays have attracted interest from several clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Rennes and Borussia Dortmund, making a summer exit increasingly likely.

Super Eagles and Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez. Copyright: xFotoxOlimpikxIMAGO

Rangers target Sankhoun Diawara as defensive reinforcement

According to reports, Rangers have already started planning for next season and have identified Troyes defender Sankhoun Diawara as one of their defensive targets.

The Gers are looking to strengthen their squad as they aim to wrestle the Scottish Premiership title away from Celtic after falling short last season.

Sankhoun Diawara. Photo by IMAGO

They eventually finished third behind Celtic and Hearts of Midlothian, prompting the club to move quickly in the transfer market.

The Scottish club have already completed the signings of Lawrence Shankland and Ben Godfrey, while Diawara has now emerged as another defensive option ahead of the new campaign.

Troyes are reportedly open to selling the 20-year-old, although Rangers face competition from several clubs for his signature.

What this means for Arsenal’s pursuit of Emmanuel Fernandez

Rangers’ move for Diawara suggests the club are already preparing for life after Fernandez. Having already added Ben Godfrey to their defence, the arrival of another left-footed centre back would leave Rangers well covered should Fernandez depart this summer.

Emmanuel Fernandez in action for Rangers. Copyright: xJamiexJohnstonxImago

Diawara’s arrival would further strengthen Rangers’ defensive options and could make the Scottish club more willing to sanction Fernandez’s exit, giving Arsenal and other interested clubs a clearer path to secure his signature.

The Premier League champions have been linked with Fernandez as they look to reinforce their defence, particularly with William Saliba expected to miss the early part of the new season.

The Super Eagles defender has already shown he possesses the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level. His composure on the ball, defensive awareness and physical presence make him a strong fit for Arsenal’s style of play, while he would also provide valuable depth in Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Emmanuel Fernandez. Copyright: xColinxPoultneyxIMAGO

Rangers are not expected to stand in the defender’s way if a suitable offer arrives. The Scottish giants have reportedly placed a valuation of more than £20 million on Fernandez, while personal terms are unlikely to be an issue.

If Arsenal decide to step up their interest and meet Rangers’ asking price, Fernandez could be on his way to North London as he prepares to begin the next chapter of his career.

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.