According to a report from Portuguese outlet A Bola (as claimed by Football Scotland), Rangers are plotting a summer move for Tiago Gouveia. However, they are not alone in the race with the likes of Villarreal and Anderlecht also keen on the £7m-rated Benfica winger.
The Light Blues are considering a loan swoop amid monetary constraints. But the Eagles have lately changed their stance on the 23-year-old Portugal youth international as they would only sanction an exit if a replacement is roped in before the summer transfer deadline. This has further frustrated the youngster as revealed by him after his side’s emphatic 3-0 win against Casa Pia.
“I’m here every day waiting for opportunities. Sometimes it doesn’t happen and the frustration is huge.”
Told Gouveia (cited by Football Scotland) who scored and assisted once despite featuring for just 25 minutes as a second-half substitute in place of the versatile and veteran club skipper Joao Mario.
Having spent the early years in the youth ranks of Tires and Sporting CP, the young prodigy joined the esteemed academy of Benfica in the summer of 2017. He mostly appeared for the reserves in the lower leagues of Portuguese football before spending the 2022-23 season at Estoril on a season-long loan.
Although he made the presence known for his fellow Primeira Liga outfit, Roger Schmidt failed to engage him enough throughout the previous campaign. Gouveia was handed five starts in 26 appearances across competitions, and the situation has not improved as yet with only 28 minutes of gametime in 2 league games this term.
Why Rangers Should Snap Him Up
Rangers had a dismal start to the 2024-25 season. They are already knocked out from the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, also, the gaffer Philippe Clement is struggling to strengthen the squad due to lack of funds. So far, they could not offload the outcasts like Ianis Hagi and Todd Cantwell whereas the dire need for a left-winger has been further highlighted after failing to bring Abdallah Sima back. Moreover, Rabbi Matondo is expected to travel south of the border in favour of a transfer to Blackburn Rovers.
The Belgian boss is relying on Scott Wright down the left despite his mediocrity over the years. Jefte remains an option, but the young Brazilian is likely to slot in as a left fullback following Ridvan Yilmaz’s injury sustained against Dynamo Kyiv. Gouveia would improve the Gers with his flair and finesse high up the pitch, nevertheless, a deal does not seem straightforward at this stage given the limitations and complexities.
