Rangers’ reported interest in Sasa Zdjelar signals Philippe Clement’s determination to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window, despite the club operating under tight financial constraints. Zdjelar, a 29-year-old Serbian international currently playing for CSKA Moscow, is a versatile defensive midfielder who can also operate as a centre-back, making him an attractive option for Rangers as they seek players who can fill multiple roles effectively. His experience across several top leagues in Europe, coupled with his leadership credentials as a former captain of Partizan Belgrade, makes him a compelling candidate for a move to Ibrox.

Zdjelar’s career has been marked by steady development and significant achievements. Having started at OFK Beograd in Serbia, he moved to Olympiakos in Greece and spent time on loan with Mallorca in Spain, gaining valuable experience in competitive environments. His subsequent four-year stint at Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade saw him become a key figure, earning the captaincy from 2020 to 2022. His performances earned him a move to CSKA Moscow in 2022, where he continues to showcase his qualities as a reliable and intelligent midfielder. Zdjelar’s nine caps for the Serbian national team further underline his pedigree as an experienced campaigner capable of competing at the highest level.

Rangers’ interest in Zdjelar comes amidst their ongoing search for an experienced midfield enforcer, a position they have been looking to bolster since the summer transfer window. The player’s ability to slot into multiple positions across the backline and midfield would address some of the team’s weaknesses, providing depth and tactical flexibility. Additionally, Zdjelar’s height and physicality, combined with his composure on the ball, would be assets in Scottish football, where physicality and adaptability are key.

The financial aspect of this potential transfer is particularly intriguing. Zdjelar is reportedly earning £15,000 per week, equivalent to £780,000 per year after tax, on a contract that runs until 2026. However, Rangers could leverage a UEFA loophole that allows players contracted to Russian clubs to suspend their contracts or terminate them outright due to the ongoing geopolitical situation involving Ukraine. If this loophole is applied, Zdjelar could become available on a free transfer, significantly reducing the financial burden on Rangers. This would represent a shrewd piece of business for a club that has been operating with constrained resources.

While securing Zdjelar on a free transfer would be an enormous boost, the move might depend on Rangers raising funds through player sales. Reports suggest that Cyriel Dessers, who has struggled to meet expectations since joining the club, could be on the way out, with Serie A side Cagliari and Ligue 1 outfit Saint Etienne reportedly interested in the striker. If Rangers can offload Dessers, it would not only free up funds but also reduce their wage bill, creating room for potential new signings like Zdjelar.

Competition for Zdjelar’s signature could also complicate matters. Reports indicate that clubs in Germany are monitoring the Serbian international, and Rangers would need to act quickly to secure his services. Given the versatility and experience Zdjelar brings, he is likely to attract attention from multiple suitors, and Rangers will need to present a compelling case to persuade him to join their project under Philippe Clement.

This situation also reflects Rangers’ broader transfer strategy under Clement and Sporting Director Patrick Stewart. With limited resources, the club has prioritized identifying bargain players who can deliver both on the pitch and in terms of future resale value. Zdjelar fits this profile, offering immediate quality and the potential to command a transfer fee down the line. However, balancing these considerations with the need to strengthen the squad sufficiently to compete for silverware remains a challenging task for Clement and his team.

In summary, the potential signing of Sasa Zdjelar represents an opportunity for Rangers to address key areas of weakness in their squad while operating within significant financial constraints. Zdjelar’s experience, versatility, and leadership qualities would make him a valuable addition, but the success of this move may hinge on Rangers’ ability to secure outgoing transfers and navigate the competitive landscape. If they can act decisively, Zdjelar could prove to be a vital piece of the puzzle as Clement aims to guide Rangers to domestic and European success.