‘Outside Target’ – Rangers At Risk Of Late Raid For Key Man | OneFootball

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Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez is an ‘outside target’ for West Ham United, with head of recruitment Nils Koppen knowing all about his qualities, according to Irons insider EXWHUemployee.

The recently relegated London Stadium side have made a shaky start to their Championship season, as they drew and lost their first two games.

Nuno Espirito Santo is already under some early pressure and will want fresh faces in through the door before the window closes.

The club’s recruitment team have a big shortlist in the final nine days of the summer window and are determined to bring in a defender.

Versatile defender Joel Veltman has been added on a free transfer, but another centre-back is needed, especially as Jean-Clair Todibo is expected to go.

That could well put Rangers in a difficult position as the Gers may well be tested for one of their key defenders in the shape of Fernandez.

Belgian executive Koppen, who spent two years working at Ibrox, is well aware of the defender’s qualities.

He is currently West Ham’s head of recruitment and has the Gers centre-back in mind for a possible swoop.

Other defenders look to be ahead of Fernandez on West Ham’s list, with the Rangers man an ‘outside target’, but the prospect of a late approach from the Hammers could cause sleepless nights at Ibrox.

He is a key player for the Scottish giants, even though the Rangers backline has been criticised by a former star.

The 25-year-old centre-back has played 39 times and has shown his quality with attacking headers, as he has scored six goals for the Gers as well.

Earlier this summer, Ligue 1 side Rennes considered him an option, but did not make a move despite their interest.

Losing Fernandez would be less than ideal for Derek McInnes, who has already had to add one centre-back in the shape of Olwethu Makhanya.

Being forced back into the market for a starting centre-back at short notice would be a huge blow for Rangers.