One of the players seemingly on his way to Rangers this summer was recently named the best player in the league in his position.
And the 22-year-old’s team-mate is certainly convinced that the Ibrox-bound ace is worthy of such an accolade.
In the Philippe Clement and Nils Koppen era, Rangers are clearly not afraid to delve into less-visited markets in pursuit of bargains.
They have already snapped up Mohamed Diomande from Denmark, and have also looked at players currently based in Hungary (Adama Traore), Cyprus (Jefte Vital) and Australia (Raphael Borges Rodrigues).
Their new centre-half, meanwhile, appears to be arriving in Glasgow from Bulgaria. Rangers’ talks with Levski Sofia stopper Jose Cordoba reached an advanced stage last week.
And, after Cordoba was left out of the Levski squad over the weekend, the Scottish Premiership giants are reportedly now closing in on a deal that could set them back a cool £3.2 million.
Rangers closing in on £3.2 million Jose Cordoba deal
John Inglis, formerly of Aberdeen and St Johnstone, now works as an agent, with Cordoba’s Levski Sofia team-mate Andrian Kraev among his clients.
And, after speaking with Kraev, the representative gave the Scottish Sun an intriguing insight into what Rangers could be getting with a man who looks destined to become their first new face of the summer window.
“I’ve spoken with Andrian about Cordoba,” Inglis explains. “And he’s said not only is he probably the best defender in Bulgaria, (but) a top pro and player. He’s also a great guy.
“They are big compliments from Andrian. And he is confident Cordoba would do well for Rangers or any other club if he is to leave Levski.”
Cordoba, a left-footed central defender, will add further depth to a backline hit hard by injuries to Connor Goldson, Leon Balogun and fellow southpaw Ben Davies this season. Rangers are also prioritising a new left-back with Borna Barisic’s contract expiring – Jefte is likely to be high on their wishlist again – while additions will be needed on the wing if Abdallah Sima and Fabio Silva return to Brighton and Wolverhampton Wanderers respectively.
A big summer ahead at Ibrox
“It must be seen first what the offers are,” legendary Levski forward Mihail Valchev tells the Mach Telegraf, via Kota Sport, when asked about the likely departures of both Cordoba and attacker Marin Petkov.
“There are no irreplaceable people in football. Marin and Jose are key players for Levski but there are certainly players at their level or better to replace them.
“If they can sell them for good money, I agree (they should be sold). But players at an even higher level should be signed (in their place).
“The goals for Levski are always high, so maximum-quality players should be signed when there is an opportunity.”
