Rangers have completed the acquisition of Venezuela striker Kevin Kelsy from Portland Timbers for $13m (£9.6m), with additional performance-based payments and a sell-on clause included in the agreement for the 22-year-old forward.
The transfer represents a significant investment by the Glasgow club in attacking reinforcement. Rangers had previously tabled a £7.5m offer for Kelsy in mid-August, but negotiations have now progressed to a substantially higher fee, reflecting the MLS club's valuation of their young prospect.
What happened with Celtic's midfield pursuit?
Celtic's attempt to bring Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis to Parkhead has ended in disappointment after negotiations between the two clubs reached an impasse. Despite discussions advancing to a late stage, the Italian club and the Scottish champions were unable to find common ground on terms, forcing Celtic to abandon their pursuit of the player.
This setback comes after Celtic had previously prepared multiple bids for Gineitis throughout the summer transfer window, indicating the midfielder was a priority target for manager Brendan Rodgers.
Which other moves fell through for Celtic?
The Parkhead club also failed in a late attempt to secure left-back Greg Taylor on loan from Greek Super League side PAOK. The proposal to bring the defender back to Scotland was rejected, leaving Celtic without the defensive reinforcement they sought.
However, Celtic did complete one significant departure, with midfielder Reo Hatate transferring to Burnley on Tuesday for £6.5m plus additional performance-related payments. The move represents a permanent exit for the Japanese midfielder after his time in Glasgow.
What other transfer activity is developing?
Former Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone has emerged as a potential target for Celtic following his release into the free agent market. The availability of the English midfielder could present an opportunity for the Scottish club to add midfield depth without a transfer fee.
Elsewhere, Dundee have rebuffed multiple approaches for midfielder Ethan Hamilton, with Aberdeen among the clubs attempting to secure the player's services. The Pittodrie club's interest suggests Hamilton remains a sought-after prospect in the Scottish game.
What criticism has emerged over Rangers' transfer strategy?
Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd has publicly questioned the club's approach to player sales, expressing frustration at their apparent inability to generate significant revenue from disposing of established squad members. Boyd specifically highlighted Belgium midfielder Nico Raskin as an example of a valuable asset the club has failed to monetise, suggesting Rangers have missed commercial opportunities in the transfer market.
Key Facts:
- Rangers have paid $13m (£9.6m) plus add-ons for Kevin Kelsy from Portland Timbers, with a sell-on percentage included
- Celtic's pursuit of Gvidas Gineitis from Torino collapsed after negotiations stalled despite reaching an advanced stage
- Reo Hatate completed his transfer to Burnley for £6.5m plus add-ons on Tuesday
- Will Smallbone, a free agent formerly with Southampton, is being considered as a potential Celtic signing
- Dundee have rejected approaches for midfielder Ethan Hamilton from multiple clubs including Aberdeen
