Rangers transfer target Joan Jordan has reportedly been 'punished' by Sevilla as they bid to sell the midfielder this summer.
The 30-year-old is thought to be surplus to requirements at the La Liga club despite still having two years left on his contract.
Rangers had tabled a loan bid for Jordan but this was rejected by Sevilla with the Spanish side unwilling to cover a significant portion of the player's wages should he leave on loan.
It's claimed Jordan is adamant he can force his way back into the first-team at Sevilla despite warnings he has come to the 'end of his cycle' with the club.
Sporting director Victor Orta explained: "They have been told that they are not part of the project. We respect their contracts, but it is better for them to choose other options.
"The club informed Jordán's representatives of its intention, we thought that his cycle had ended. It has been very clear to him.
"His representative had a meeting with the club and it was clearly stated to him."
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In the latest twist in Jordan's complicated situation, the player was not involved as Sevilla played Orlando Pirates in a pre-season match. Sevilla lost 2-0 in the bounce game.
Mundo Deportivo claims the move is "one more step in the plan drawn up by the Seville club so that the player leaves before the end of the summer transfer window".
The situation is reportedly being monitored by La Liga and the Spanish Footballers' Association (AFE) with the bodies able to intervene should rules be breached.
Each summer, clubs are reminded of rules over "illegal practices" surrounding removing players from the activity of the squad.
An AFE rule reads: "Not allowing a footballer to participate in a training camp may constitute a serious breach of contract and of his/her rights, as provided for in articles 4.2, sections a and b, and 17.1 of the Workers' Statute; also as established in article 7.4 of Royal Decree 1006/1985, which regulates the employment relationship of professional athletes.”
