Rangers manager Michael Beale has told a press conference that the Gers have completed a pre-contract move to sign LAFC and Ecuador midfielder Jose Cifuentes and are trying to do an immediate deal – amid recent Leeds links.
Cifuentes, 24, has starred for LAFC over the last three and a half years – clocking up 121 outings, having a hand in 35 goals. Last season, he was a crucial part of a side that also included Gareth Bale, going on to win the MLS title.
But the 16-time Ecuador star’s contract expires at the end of the calendar year, with MLS players contracted until December of the year – due to their league running from March to October. Cifuentes’ deal ends on December 31.
Tom Bogert, an MLS expert, reported in April that Leeds, Rangers and Espanyol all wanted the midfielder. Mateusz Bogusz has come in at LAFC and made a solid start, leaving Leeds on permanently. Possible Cifuentes replacement.
But Leeds have missed out on the South American. Beale has told a press conference on Friday that Rangers have a pre-contract agreement in place to land the player, and are in talks to try and sort an immediate deal this summer.
“The clubs are still talking. He’s out of contract at the end of the year. We have an agreement for that. We would like to bring it to a close early if we can so he can join us this window. Those discussions are ongoing,” Beale told BBC.
Rangers complete pre-contract move to sign LAFC midfielder Cifuentes
Leeds need midfielders and bringing in a no.8 like Cifuentes, who boasts international experience, goals, assists and a title winner’s medal – he would have been perfect. Step up is big, but he clearly has the talent to be able to do so.
However, Rangers have potential Champions League football on offer. They have an exciting manager in place, the atmosphere of Scottish football and Ibrox and silverware. Cifuentes will join Rangers, at least, by the first of January.
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