Rangers make approach to sign Zinedin Smajlovic amid multi-million Celtic offer

Rangers continue to push forward with their summer rebuild under Derek McInnes and one name that is rapidly becoming one of the biggest transfer stories of the window is Sandefjord defender Zinedin Smajlovic. The Swedish centre-back has attracted interest from clubs all across Europe after a series of impressive performances in Norway and Rangers are among the clubs hoping to convince him that Ibrox is the right destination for the next stage of his career.

After a frustrating end to last season Rangers know they need reinforcements in several key areas. The arrival of Lawrence Shankland was seen as a major statement from the new regime but work is continuing behind the scenes as McInnes and the recruitment team search for players capable of helping Rangers return to the top of Scottish football.

Defence is one area that Rangers are eager to strengthen. Throughout last season there were moments when the team looked vulnerable at the back and McInnes wants more competition for places as he prepares for his first campaign in charge. That has led Rangers towards Smajlovic who has been catching the eye in Norway despite playing for a Sandefjord side that currently sits in the middle of the Eliteserien table.

The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most highly-rated young defenders in Scandinavia. His performances have not gone unnoticed and Rangers scouts have been monitoring his progress for months. The club believe he has the qualities required to succeed in Scottish football and potentially develop into one of the best defenders in the league.

However Rangers face serious competition for his signature. Reports emerging this week suggest Celtic have stepped up their interest by submitting an improved offer worth around £3.8 million with a further £1.7 million in bonuses. That proposal underlines just how highly the Parkhead side rate the defender and shows that the battle for his signature is far from straightforward.

The interest does not stop there. Clubs from across Europe have also been keeping a close eye on the player. Olympiacos are believed to be interested while Hull City have reportedly made enquiries. Turkish giants Fenerbahce are also monitoring the situation while French clubs Toulouse and Lyon have both been linked with a move. Dutch side Feyenoord remain in the race as well.

For Rangers supporters the level of competition should perhaps be seen as a positive sign. When so many respected clubs are pursuing the same player it usually suggests there is genuine quality there. Smajlovic is not being viewed as a gamble or a project. He is already proving himself at senior level and many clubs believe he can continue his development significantly over the next few years.

One issue Rangers face is that Sandefjord are under no immediate pressure to sell. Unlike some clubs who need transfer income quickly the Norwegian side can afford to be patient. They know interest is growing and they understand that a bidding war could develop. As a result they are unlikely to accept any offer that falls below their valuation.

That means Rangers may need to act decisively if they want to secure the defender. McInnes has already shown since arriving at Ibrox that he wants players who are hungry ambitious and capable of improving. Smajlovic appears to fit that profile perfectly.

At just 22 years of age he still has plenty of room for development. Yet he already possesses many of the qualities modern managers look for in a central defender. He is comfortable on the ball calm under pressure and capable of playing out from the back. His passing range allows his team to build attacks while his physical presence makes him difficult to beat in defensive situations.

Those qualities have helped establish him as one of the standout defenders in Norway this season. Despite Sandefjord sitting eighth in the table he has consistently impressed observers with his maturity and composure. For a player still relatively early in his career that has been particularly encouraging.

Rangers believe they can provide the perfect environment for the next stage of his development. Playing at Ibrox brings pressure but it also offers opportunities. Rangers compete for trophies every season. Expectations are high. Every match matters. For ambitious young players that environment can accelerate development.

The possibility of European football is another attraction. Players want to test themselves at the highest level possible and Rangers can offer that opportunity. Competing in front of packed crowds and challenging for silverware remains a major selling point when attracting talent from abroad.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Smajlovic’s story is the origin of his first name. Unlike many players his name carries a direct connection to one of the greatest footballers of all time. His father was such a huge admirer of French legend Zinedine Zidane that he decided to name his son after him.

The result was Zinedin Smajlovic.

The defender has often spoken about how proud he is of that connection. He has said he loves his name and appreciates the story behind it. Growing up he watched countless videos of Zidane and admired everything the former Real Madrid and France star achieved during his career.

Although Smajlovic plays in a completely different position the comparison has followed him throughout his life. Friends coaches supporters and journalists regularly ask about the connection. It has become an interesting part of his identity as a footballer.

Now the next chapter of his career could potentially take him to Scotland.

For Rangers this transfer represents more than simply adding another defender to the squad. It is about building for the future. The club want players who can contribute immediately but also increase in value over time. Smajlovic appears capable of doing both.

The strategy under McInnes seems clear. Rangers are looking for players with strong potential alongside proven performers. Lawrence Shankland brings experience and goals. Smajlovic would bring youth energy and long-term promise.

That balance is important. Successful teams require a mix of experienced leaders and emerging talents. Rangers believe they can create that blend over the coming months and the pursuit of Smajlovic reflects that vision.

While Celtic’s bid may currently appear to place them in a strong position the transfer race remains far from over. Players consider many factors when making decisions. Financial packages matter but so do footballing opportunities. The chance to play regularly can often be decisive.

McInnes may feel he can offer exactly that. Rangers need defensive reinforcements and Smajlovic could potentially establish himself as an important first-team player relatively quickly. That prospect could prove attractive to the defender as he weighs up his options.

The coming weeks are likely to be crucial. Negotiations may accelerate and rival clubs could increase their interest. Sandefjord will continue assessing the situation while interested teams consider their next moves.

For now Rangers remain firmly involved. The club have not given up hope of securing the defender despite the growing competition. Indeed there is increasing belief that the race remains wide open and that no club has yet established a decisive advantage.

Supporters will be watching developments closely. Every update will be analysed. Every rumour will generate discussion. That is the nature of modern transfer windows particularly when exciting young talents are involved.

What is clear is that Rangers view Smajlovic as a player worth pursuing. His age ability potential and growing reputation make him one of the most attractive defensive options currently available. Whether Rangers ultimately succeed remains to be seen but the interest is genuine and the pursuit continues.

If McInnes can convince the defender that Ibrox is the right destination then Rangers could secure one of the most exciting young centre-backs currently playing in Scandinavia. Such a signing would represent another major statement from the new manager and further evidence that Rangers are determined to build a squad capable of challenging for every major honour next season.

The battle for Zinedin Smajlovic is only just beginning but Rangers have made it clear that they intend to be part of the fight until the very end.