Michael Beale admits Rangers are NO closer to any deals at this moment in time with the transder deadline looming.
The Light Blues has made one signing to date in the shape of Norwich City midfielder Todd Cantwell. He penned a long-term deal at Ibrox last week and was handed an instant debut from the start in his first appearance since November. The Ibrox boss has made it clear over the positions he would like to target with a midfielder that 'strengthens and creates more competition'.
Nicolas Raskin from Standard Liege is one that is moving closer and closer according to reports in his homeland. However, Morgan Whittaker from Swansea City has been ruled out, with the attacker looking set to stay put with the English Championship side in this window. Nothing is imminent in Govan with Beale declaring he wants players arriving for the long-term and to make his side stronger NOW. Speaking in his pre-match media conference for the midweek clash at Hearts, Beale said: "No closer on deals at the moment, as soon as any updates in the next 24 hrs we will make you aware.
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"We are looking for a midfielder that strengthens the team and creates more competition.
"I want players here for the long-term and to make us stronger right now. Once the window shuts the coaching takes place and I am looking forward to that.
"We always have different targets for every position - I am really pleased with the targets from our recruitment team, we are all aligned across the club.
On Whittaker, he claimed: "There was just one bid that went in that got rejected. There’s been a lot of hot air around the situation. I think he’s a boy they like, that’s why they brought him back from Plymouth.
"They’ve obviously got their plans with him. I thought he was the most eye-catching player in League one this season and he’s gone back to Swansea, they’re probably looking at the league table and thinking he’s a valuable asset. There’s no problem with at, he’s a good player and I wish him and Swansea well."
On Raskin, he added: "He's an excellent player and there's loads of interest in him. He's got a lot of options I believe and someone who can connect the midfield and the forwards - technically a good player. He would be a good signing for someone.
"There's a lot of competition for his signature, he's a sought after player and its an eye catching one because he's contract is running down and his age. He's a player that's well thought of in the Belgian national team set-up. I can't confirm anything now but it's closer."
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