Rangers were reportedly in the running to sign Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino, but recent developments suggest that they are likely to miss out on the highly-rated 19-year-old Argentine centre-back. According to reports from the Scottish Sun, Rangers were eyeing a last-minute move for Anselmino as the transfer deadline approached. The young defender had caught the eye of several clubs, and Marseille seemed to be in the driver’s seat to secure his signature. However, a late twist has thrown a wrench into the potential transfer, as Italian journalist Luca Bendoni reported that the deal to Marseille has collapsed on transfer deadline day. Bendoni claimed that the proposed move hit a snag, with Anselmino’s future now in limbo and his next destination unclear as the window draws to a close.

This sudden turn of events raises the possibility that Rangers could be back in the race for Anselmino, although it still seems unlikely at this stage. With the transfer window almost closed, it’s uncertain where the young defender will end up, but Rangers are not currently seen as the frontrunner for his signature.

Rangers’ need for defensive reinforcements had been a key topic earlier in the transfer window, especially with their struggles in the backline. However, as the season has progressed and more players have returned to fitness, the demand for another centre-back has diminished somewhat. John Souttar, who had been sidelined due to injury, made an impressive return to the starting XI with a goalscoring performance in Rangers’ 4-0 win over Ross County. This was a positive sign for Rangers, as Souttar’s return strengthens their defensive options. Additionally, Clinton Nsiala has been a standout performer, even earning the sponsor’s Man of the Match award in a recent match at Ibrox, showcasing his importance in the defensive unit.

The return of other key defenders like Robin Propper, who also featured in recent matches, and the solid performances of club captain James Tavernier, who has stepped in during the absence of Leon Balogun and Dujon Sterling, have given Rangers more stability at the back. With these players now available to Philippe Clement, the need for an additional centre-back like Anselmino appears less urgent. Rangers also added Lille defender Rafael Fernandes on loan, which further lessens the immediate need for more defensive reinforcements. This sudden influx of defensive options has likely led Clement to shift his priorities, especially with the window closing soon.

Anselmino had joined Chelsea in a £15 million deal from Boca Juniors during the summer transfer window, and his potential has been highly regarded. Despite only recently joining Chelsea, Anselmino had spent the second half of the Argentine season on loan at Boca Juniors’ famed La Bombonera stadium, where he gained valuable first-team experience. His move to Stamford Bridge had generated considerable excitement, and many clubs, including Rangers, had reportedly been keeping an eye on him.

However, with the collapse of the proposed transfer to Marseille and Chelsea’s apparent reluctance to let go of the young defender, Anselmino’s future remains uncertain. At this point, it seems that Rangers are unlikely to make a last-minute swoop for the player, as they have other priorities and options in the squad. It’s possible that Anselmino could remain at Chelsea, at least for the immediate future, unless another club steps in with a compelling offer.

In conclusion, while Rangers initially seemed to be in contention for Anselmino’s signature, the collapse of his move to Marseille and the strengthening of Rangers’ defensive options have made the likelihood of a deal with Chelsea increasingly slim. With players returning to full fitness and new signings already bolstering the squad, it seems Philippe Clement has other areas of focus as the transfer window nears its end. Unless a dramatic turn of events occurs, it’s unlikely that Anselmino will be making his way to Ibrox this season.