Rangers are considering a move for the sought-after Real Betis defender

If reports in Spain (according to the Daily Chronicle) are true, Rangers are leading the race to sign Noble Mendy this summer. But they aren’t the only team in the race; Spanish side Rayo Vallecano and Belgian club Club Brugge are also keeping tabs on the Real Betis defender.

Rangers have already parted ways with experienced defensive duo Leon Balogun and Robin Propper. A transfer for Conor Coady also failed to materialize, leaving Russell Martin and Johan Soutar as the only experienced center-backs available. Leon King, Clinton Nciala, and Ben Davies are not in the manager’s plans and are expected to leave on loan or permanent transfers.

Although James Tavernier has been deployed as a makeshift center-back on several occasions, Martin has been forced to partner with four right-footed center-backs, including the club captain. His experience could help him fill the gaps in defense and free up space for Max Aarons on the right.

While a lack of first-team opportunities could be a drawback for Mendy, his natural left-wing development could provide greater balance to his manager’s defense. The Real Betis prodigy, known for his immense potential, had previously been close to joining PSV Eindhoven. However, the Dutch giants were unable to register him due to exceeding their foreign player quota, providing Rangers with an opportunity to pursue him.

The 20-year-old Senegalese rising star began his career in his native Gedhiayé before moving to France. He subsequently played for Vernon Youth, Menies, Mantova, and Paris Saint-Germain. After emerging through the Paris Saint-Germain reserve team, the youngster earned his debut for Real Betis, then a French Ligue 2 side.

Meanwhile, La Liga side Real Betis loaned him out a few summers ago. Mendy excelled for Betis Sporting Clube in Spain’s fourth tier, earning them a permanent deal last year for a fee of approximately €900,000.

Why should Rangers intensify their pursuit of the left-footed defender? However, aside from five first-team appearances in the 2024-25 season, Mendy continues to feature for the reserves. He should seek a new challenge and more regular game time. Although Rangers have already signed two new center-backs, Nacer Djiga and Manny Fernandes, they still have reason to prioritize this young star player.