Gers have sealed a deal worth £10m for a playmaker – Philippe wants to dominate

Rangers were not anticipated to spend much money in the January transfer window, but when Mohamed Diomande arrived,

it was clear that Philippe Clement would be supported.

The Gers manager will see £4.3 million evaporate from his summer budget when the 22-year-old’s loan move is made permanent,

giving the young Ivorian plenty of time to adjust to a new nation and the magnitude of the club.

Mohamed Diomande made his Rangers debut against Ayr United, looking sharp and unlucky not to score with an incredible overhead kick,

but will the number 10 role he deputised for be the one he plays the most often?

Rangers have fresh Aribo in Mohamed Diomande’s signing.

A recent Ibrox departure lends itself to immediate analogies.

Diomande may not have the same 6ft 3inch frame,

but his technical and athletic talents make him a perfect match for Southampton’s £10 million addition Joe Aribo.

Speaking to Rangers TV after his first start for the club, it’s simple to see how Mohamed Diomande’s versatility may benefit the squad:

“I can play anywhere in the center.

“So I can play Nos. 6, 8, and 10. I just take this opportunity to assist the team.

“Wherever the manager puts me, I’m just going to try my most for the team.

“My position is No 8, but I can play anywhere in the middle.”

In that memorable Braga comeback, Aribo played everywhere, including midfield, forward, and left defender.

Diomande may not have that range, but his performance over the weekend provided insight into the type of player we may have on our hands.

There wasn’t the same dribbling danger that Aribo had,

but he demonstrated a willingness to transfer the ball quickly and support the attack.

With John Lundstram in the anchor position in midfield, competition to play alongside him is high.

The good news is that there is no rush to bring Mohamed Diomande in right away,

and he can be given time to adjust to a new formation and style of play in the most stressful of situations.

Only Philippe Clement knows where he belongs in that configuration.

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