It’s been a winning start for Rangers under new boss Michael Beale when they came from behind to secure an edgy 3-2 victory against Hibernian. While they are still way behind league leaders Celtic in the Premiership standings, the upcoming winter window could be crucial for them in terms of scripting a resurgence with new signings. If a report from the Scottish Sun is believed to be true, the Glasgow giants are eyeing a swoop for Benedito Mambuene Mukendi.
But the Gers are not alone in the transfer trail for the Angolan sensation. Portuguese outfit Braga is also keen on the 20-year-old midfield prodigy who has made significant strides in Portugal’s second tier with Trofense. His contract runs down next summer and a fee of around £500k should be enough to secure his services in the January window.
Mukendi, known as ‘Beni’, left his hometown club Atlético Petróleos Luanda in favour of a transfer to Trofense in the summer of 2020. So far he has featured 40 times for them across competitions and his resolute performance in the middle of the park has grabbed the attention of the scouts in attendance.
Why Rangers Should Sign This Young Midfield Prospect
The Angola youth international is comfortable in various midfield roles. But he looks more effective as a number 8 considering his ball-carrying ability, technical attribute and vision. He is capable of pulling the strings from his central spot with swift transitions and link-up play, and therefore, draws similarities to Glen Kamara who joined Rangers a few years back during Steven Gerrard’s regime.
The Finnish midfield ace has struggled lately under ex-boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst. But he is now tipped to bounce back once again with Beale in charge of the Ibrox heavyweights. Having said that, the Light Blues must bolster themselves despite having ample options in the centre of the pitch.
Ryan Jack was immense in midfield against Hibs, but the Scotsman has failed to cement his place due to form and fitness reasons. He will be a free agent once the season is over and it remains to be seen whether the club offers him an extension beyond the ongoing term. Versatile James Sands has been converted into a centre-half amid the injury absence of John Souttar, Filip Helander, Ben Davies and Connor Goldson, whereas 38-year-old Steven Davis is expected to leave by the end of the 2022-23 campaign.
John Lundstram has been exquisite since his Bosman move from Sheffield United, but the manager must develop the next-gen stars to succeed the veterans. Academy prospects Charlie McCann and Alex Lowry hold a bright future ahead, but a youngster of Beni’s profile must have an immediate first-team path with quite a few senior appearances already in Portugal.
