Leading journalist rebuffs reports of imminent Rangers signing

Leading Scottish journalist Chris Jack has rebuffed claims that Nottingham Forest centre-back Jonathan Panzo is imminently set to sign for Rangers.

Writing in the Herald, the reputable journalist was talking about the Ibrox side’s ongoing pursuit of Dutch striker Sam Lammers, which appears to be nearing completion.

But Chris Jack also made mention of Rangers’ high-profile pursuit of former England youth international Jonathan Panzo, who is reportedly the subject of £2.5m interest from Ibrox.

Those reports earlier in the week had claimed that Panzo, 22, was set to imminently undergo a medical with a view to signing for Rangers.

Chris Jack has refuted those claims – without pouring cold water on any Rangers interest – and suggested that a deal isn’t quite as far down the line as previously believed.

Writing in the Herald article, Jack said:

“Defender Jonathan Panzo is also on the radar but it is understood that a move for the Nottingham Forest stopper is not imminent.“

Rangers Panzo deal is not as close as first reported
Rangers are known to be on the hunt for central-defensive reinforcements and whilst the club does appear to be interested in Jonathan Panzo, it isn’t clear if the centre-back hunt will end there.

The Gers have announced the release of Swedish international centre-back Filip Helander at the end of his contract whilst last season was complicated by a serious injury crisis in defence.

Vice-captain Connor Goldson is also currently sidelined, whilst fellow defender Ben Davies is reportedly interesting clubs south of the border in the English second tier.

Alongside Jonathan Panzo, Rangers have been extensively linked to Arsenal defender Auston Trusty but the latest suggests that this link has hit the skids.

Reports have claimed that the Gunners’ asking price is well above what Rangers are willing to pay at present as the club looks to bolster their defensive options.