Rangers push ahead with talks for one of league’s best

Rangers have reportedly begun discussions over a move for Hammarby defender Hampus Skoglund as the club steps up its search for a long-term replacement for James Tavernier.

The Ibrox side are looking to rebuild after a disappointing campaign which ended without silverware. Rangers finished third in the Scottish Premiership and failed to make a significant impact in Europe, leaving Danny Rohl with plenty of work to do ahead of the new season.

Strengthening the squad has become a priority, with defensive reinforcements high on the agenda following a number of departures at the back. Tavernier’s exit has left a significant gap in the side, while loan spells for Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius have also come to an end.

As a result, Rangers have turned their attention to Skoglund, who has earned a reputation as one of the most promising full-backs in Swedish football. The Hammarby defender has been described as a “dynamic” player and is widely regarded as one of the standout performers in his position in the Allsvenskan.

According to Rangers News, the club have already opened talks with the player’s representatives regarding a potential move to Glasgow. The report claims discussions have progressed beyond an initial enquiry, with multiple meetings said to have taken place in recent weeks.

Those talks are understood to underline Rangers’ serious interest in the 21-year-old, who is viewed as a player capable of filling the void left by Tavernier while also fitting the club’s long-term plans.

Rangers have already strengthened their attacking options with the arrival of Lawrence Shankland, but attention is now shifting towards rebuilding the defence before the start of the new campaign.

Any deal for Skoglund is unlikely to be straightforward. The defender remains under contract with Hammarby until 2029 after signing a new long-term extension last year, placing the Swedish club in a strong negotiating position.

However, there is optimism that an agreement can be reached. Skoglund has previously suggested he would welcome the opportunity to test himself abroad and described speculation linking him with a move away from Sweden as “fun”.

With talks reportedly underway, Rangers appear determined to make the highly-rated full-back one of their key additions this summer.