Rangers are actively pursuing a move to secure the services of FC Twente left-back Gijs Smal this month, following the breakdown of their chances to sign Josh Doig, according to sources close to Football Insider.
The Glasgow giants have made it a priority to acquire a left-back capable of seamlessly fitting into Philippe Clement’s starting XI, with Smal and Doig emerging as their top targets.
However, hopes of landing Doig were dashed when Marseille successfully secured a late-night bid acceptance from Hellas Verona for the 21-year-old. Doig has since agreed to terms on a four-and-a-half-year deal with the French club, extending until 2028. This development comes as a significant setback for Rangers, who had initiated preliminary discussions and were optimistic about finalizing a deal for the former Hibernian star.
With the Doig deal off the table, Rangers are now redirecting their attention to the acquisition of Gijs Smal from FC Twente before the transfer window closes on February 1st.
Smal, aged 26, is in the final months of his contract with the Dutch side, presenting an opportunity for Rangers to secure his services at a potentially reduced fee this month. There is speculation that Rangers may even consider waiting until Smal becomes a free agent at the end of the season, attempting to lure him to Ibrox without incurring a transfer fee to Twente.
A calf injury sidelined Smal for the first eight weeks of the season, but he has since made a strong comeback, featuring in six of the last eight league games for FC Twente.
The Dutchman had an outstanding campaign in the previous season, contributing two goals and 10 assists in the Eredivisie – the highest assist tally among all players in the league that season. Smal joined Twente as a free agent in 2020 from Volendam, signing a three-year deal.
Rangers remain keen on reinforcing their left-back position, especially with uncertainties surrounding the futures of Ridvan Yilmaz and Borna Barisic. The pursuit of Gijs Smal now takes center stage as the Scottish club looks to bolster their squad for the challenges ahead.