If a recent report from the Portuguese outlet O Jogo is believed to be true, Rangers are keeping close tabs on Gilberto Batista ahead of a potential summer move. The Moreirense centre-back is valued at around £2.6m, but the Minho side are keen to extend his contract beyond the summer of 2027.
However, the Gers are not alone in the hunt, as the Black Knight Football Group could prefer a deal with Lorient or Bournemouth – the major European clubs they own. A decision has yet to be made on Batista’s future, and a transfer to Ibrox can’t be ruled out at this stage, considering their financial boost following last season’s Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers-led takeover.
The 22-year-old former Portugal youth international progressed through the academy ranks of Sporting CP before securing a regular role for their reserves as a teenager. He eventually joined Moreirense on a Bosman in the summer of 2023 and has since flourished for the top-flight outfit in the heart of the backline.
Meanwhile, 2025-26 has been the breakout season for the defender, who switched his allegiance to Guinea-Bissau last year and made his debut for the Dromedaries in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification fixture against Burkina Faso. So far, he has made 25 league appearances for Moreirense, and his towering presence in deep defence has helped the Green and Whites climb up to seventh in the Primeira Liga standings.
Despite a dreadful start under Russell Martin, Rangers have scripted a comeback upon Danny Rohl’s appointment as the Ibrox chief. They are chasing the Premiership glory with five games remaining, and their composure at the back could be key en route to conquering the coveted crown, regardless of being a point behind the league leaders, Hearts.
Why Rangers Require New Centre-back
Although the Light Blues have Emmanuel Fernandez, John Souttar, Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius among the senior centre-halves, a crisis could hit them in the summer amid uncertainties over Fernandez, Djiga and Cornelius’ future. Rangers are keen to keep hold of Djiga, but Wolves, his parent club, intend to recoup the £10m they invested for the Burkina Faso international. Cronelius, on loan from Marseille, has hardly featured due to a long-term injury absence and, therefore, might not be retained beyond this campaign.
Fernandez has been a revelation for the Gers and is now drawing the attention of several Premier League hotshots, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton and West Ham United. The Scottish giants might be forced to reconstruct their defensive third, and Batista, impressive with his ball-playing ability, discipline and concentration, could be a value-for-money signing if they secure his services in the coming days.
