Rangers are edging closer to a deal for Antonio Colak. Sources in Greece insist PAOK Salonika are digging their heels in over their €3million valuation of the Croatian international striker after knocking back a second Ibrox bid.
But their stance could soften if they can tie-up a replacement for the 28-year-old. Ibrox chiefs believe a deal is in sight and are confident they can get their man having lodged a unsuccessful second offer worth €2.3million, with the Greek Super League outfit promised further riches with a sell-on clause and goals bonus part of the package.
Colak has emerged as Gio van Bronckhorst's No.1 target as he looks to beef up his attacking options ahead of Rangers' new campaign. However, he was pushed into action last night for PAOK in spite of Gers' interest as he was introduced at half-time in a 4-0 pre-season trouncing of Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles. The 28-year-old has been capped three times by Croatia and was the man responsible for torpedoing the Light Blues' Champions League push last season as his Ibrox double for former club Malmo dumped the then Scottish Champions out at the third qualifying stage.
Gers have been told they will have to increase their offer for the German-born striker if they want him on board for this year's assault on the group stages. Colak was a major hit on loan in Sweden last term, blasting 19 goals for Jon Dahl Tomasson's side.
But he hasn't quite hit the same heights for PAOK are determined to retrieve the €3million they forked out when they bought him from Croatians Rijeka two years ago. However, PAOK coach Razvan Lucescu will only sanction the sale once he gets fresh back-up for his main marksman, former Norwich ace Nelson Oliveira.
His only other striking option is 18-year-old Greek Under-21 kid Georgios Koutsias. If an agreement cannot be struck, Rangers will be forced to turn their attention to their other forward targets.
Van Bronckhorst is also keen on Norwegian free agent Erik Botheim and Sunderland striker Ross Stewart but wages could prove to be a stumbling block for both. Meanwhile, Gers have rewarded youngster Cole McKinnon with a new three-year deal.
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