Rangers set to sign Free-agent star regarded king of set-pieces

Rangers set to sign Free-agent star regarded king of set-pieces

Gijs Smal has confirmed that he will leave FC Twente this summer, but in a boost for Rangers, the left-back says that his reported move to Eredivisie champions Feyenoord is not yet finalised.

After allegations surfaced on Friday claiming that Gijs Smal had signed a long-term contract with Feyenoord, with only two months left in the current season, FC Twente fans made no secret of their feelings.

Smal’s first touch was met with boos during Twente’s 2-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam on Saturday, with home fans clearly unimpressed by reports that one of their star players had agreed to join Feyenoord, who are only six points ahead of them in the table and competing with the left-back’s current club for the runners-up spot.

Smal is open about the idea that this will most likely be his final season in Enschede. But, with Rangers also interested in a player who ended first in the Eredivisie’s assist charts last season, the much-coveted 26-year-old has given the Glasgow giants a timely boost by insisting that no decision has been made on his next move.

Gijs Smal gives Rangers fresh hope.

“Obviously, my phone exploded. “I put it away after fifteen minutes,” Smal tells ESPN. “I discussed it with the coach and (director) Arnold Bruggink.” You’re aware that such events are possible.

“How are you preparing for that? I got the first pass, and they (the crowd) began whistling. I do comprehend it in some ways.

“I found it amazing that something like this would come out at all, given that there is nothing yet. Look, I would be lying if I said I had never communicated with them (Feyenoord). I’m a free transfer, so I’m gathering my bearings.

“I’ve also been in touch with other clubs. Only now are they claiming I am already a Feyenoord player, which is plain false.”
Feyenoord agreement is not completed yet.

According to Rotterdam-based journal 1908, Smal is still on the Rangers’ radar after Philippe Clement expressed interest in January. Smal, who will be familiar with the club’s director of football and former PSV head Nils Koppen, might be an excellent substitute for the similarly out-of-contract Borna Barisic.

The Twente ace shares Barisic’s precise delivery from deep in set-piece situations.

“I understand from the perspective of the fans, that they are disappointed that I am leaving on a free transfer,” Smal said. “That is not yet the case, though the chance of me renewing is very small.”

Rangers also remain keen on Jefte Vital. The Gers agreed terms with Fluminense in January but could not seal a deal for the Brazilian as he was under contract at loan club APOEL Nicosia.

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