Rangers have signed defender Rafael Fernandez until the end of the season.
The 22-year-old joins from French side Lille and the move includes an option to make the move permanent in the summer.
Fernandez came through Sporting Lisbon’s academy before moving to Portuguese club Aruca, then in Ligue 1, and will provide manager Filipe Clement with more defensive options after several injuries this season.
Rangers have been searching for a centre-back since December, with John Soutar missing after last month’s draw with Spurs, Dujon Sterling still injured and Feyenoord loanee Neraisho Casanvirho ruled out for the rest of the season.
“I’m very happy to be here,” he said after his move to Ibrox.
“My first impressions were really good, I met some of my colleagues, some of the staff and they all encouraged me to start this new challenge.”
Clement added: “He is a young defender who brings a lot of qualities that will be an asset to our team for the rest of this season. He has a lot of potential and I look forward to working with him.”
Rangers technical director Nils Koppen said. “We recognized the defensive area we wanted to strengthen this window and it’s great to be able to add Rafael. I’m sure he can continue to develop his game at Rangers and I’m looking forward to seeing how.” he challenges our defensive players to play in the coming weeks and months, and possibly into the seasons to come.”
Clement: Rangers must sell in January
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Rangers boss Philip Clement discusses potential sackings of Cyril Dessers, Rabbi Matondo and Kieran Dowell
Gers manager Clement has revealed that the club will have to sell players during this transfer window.
Winger Rabbi Matondo, midfielder Kieran Dowell and striker Cyril Dessers have all been linked with a move away from Ibrox.
“I never talk about individual cases and names like that because it’s always about the right price for each player. It has to be a win-win for everyone.
“It’s something the club will need (to sell players during this window). It’s the club’s decision, as it was in the summer.
