Toronto 'finalizing deal' for Rangers midfielder | OneFootball

Toronto FC are set to bolster their midfield options with the addition of Ecuador international José Cifuentes, with the club finalising a loan deal from Rangers.

According to Tom Bogert, the 26-year-old is expected to join on loan until the summer, with Toronto retaining an option to make the move permanent.

Cifuentes rose to prominence in Major League Soccer with LAFC, where he was a key figure during their run to the 2022 MLS Cup title, before making the switch to Scottish giants Rangers.

Should the deal be completed, Cifuentes will become the latest reinforcement in a busy summer for Toronto. The Canadian side have already added playmaker Đorđe Mihailović and forward Jules-Anthony Vilsaint, signalling a significant reshaping of the squad under new management.

At the same time, the club have overseen a considerable clear-out of high-profile names. Former Italy internationals Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi have both departed, along with Tyrese Spicer, Deybi Flores and midfielders Matty Longstaff.

Toronto’s recruitment strategy appears focused on injecting energy and creativity into the side while balancing the books. Cifuentes, known for his athleticism and box-to-box presence, could provide the dynamism required to stabilise the midfield and support Mihailovic in transition.

If the Ecuadorian finds his best form, Toronto may well look to trigger the purchase option, making him a longer-term fixture at BMO Field.

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