Rangers’ pursuit of Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil has suffered a setback, with Ipswich Town now believed to be leading the race after intensifying their interest over the weekend.
As a result, the Light Blues may be forced to explore alternative options ahead of the January window deadline.
Danny Rohl is a big admirer of Tromsø midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl, who has emerged as a potential target.
While Rangers have yet to submit a formal bid, the 20-year-old is firmly on their radar. The Norway youth international is attracting widespread interest, with several European clubs having monitored his progress closely.
Hjerto-Dahl has come through the ranks at his boyhood club Tromsø and quickly established himself as a key figure after breaking into the first team. The midfielder has already amassed 87 senior appearances, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists, numbers that have caught the attention of clubs including Brighton, Leeds United, Bournemouth and Sunderland.
Rangers have already strengthened their midfield with the arrival of Tochi Chukwuani from Sturm Graz, but departures and injuries have left Rohl light on options.
Cameron has joined Aberdeen on loan, Kieran Dowell has moved permanently to Hull City, and Joe Rothwell could yet depart amid interest from Sheffield United. Meanwhile, injuries to Connor Barron and Bailey Rice have further reduced depth in the centre of the park.
Although Hjerto-Dahl is not a natural holding midfielder like Dan Neil, his physical presence, tactical awareness and ability to break up play could make him a valuable addition.
His composure in possession and passing range would allow Rangers to build attacks from deep, while providing flexibility in a midfield that is currently stretched.
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