Russell Martin, who has been reportedly pursuing 21 year old Everton attacker Youssef Chermiti for an alleged £8million fee, revealed to Sky Sports: “We’re close to a couple [of new players].
Russell Martin is hopeful of securing a couple of fresh faces before the transfer window shuts but confirmed Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers has most likely featured for the final time in a Light Blue jersey.
The 30 year old Nigeria international, who appeared as a second-half substitute during the stalemate with Celtic at Ibrox, has been touted for a switch to Greek outfit Panathinaikos.
Martin, who has been reportedly pursuing 21 year old Everton attacker Youssef Chermiti for an alleged £8million fee, revealed to Sky Sports: “We’re close to a couple [of new players].
“I also think Cyriel [Dessers] has probably played his last game for the club and he’s been great the whole time he’s been here, so he goes with everyone’s best wishes.
“It’s good business for us and for him, with the stage he’s at in his career.
“Things can change, but it looks likely and we’ll have two new guys in the building so let’s see what happens outside of that.”
Supporters’ darling Nicolas Raskin was absent from the Rangers starting XI amid rumours surrounding his future.
The faithful bellowed the Belgium midfielder’s name during the opening 45 minutes, though Martin later stated: “I didn’t hear that (Raskin chants). I just want to focus my energy on the squad today who I’m proud of.
“It’s not about me, Nico or any individual. I just want to talk about the group who were brilliant today. I’m not going to talk about individuals.”
Celtic’s striker, Adam Idah, who has been linked with a £7million move to Swansea, was absent from the line-up and prior to the match Brendan Rodgers told BBC Scotland: “It’s very close, hence he’s not here.
“We need a number of players in, not just in the centre-forward position. I’m hopeful that over the next 24 hours we can get the reinforcements we need in the front line.”
Rodgers acknowledges the period until the transfer deadline closes at 11pm on Monday is crucial for the club.
He stated: “It’s been so clear what the team has needed and what’s required.
“I really hope that in this period we can do that, because it’s Celtic’s DNA: attacking intent, mentality and that bit of quality when you arrive into the final third.”
Celtic have been associated with Anderlecht forward Kasper Dolberg but Rodgers said: “There’s lots of names that are out there, so, I think from our perspective, we just need that quality and speed in the team and the creativity, that’s key for us.”
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