Ianis Hagi appears to have lost his Rangers squad number to Oscar Cortes, as the Romanian is close to a move away, according to the Scottish Sun.
The publication reported on 22 July that the Colombian has been sporting the number seven shirt during preseason, following his re-signing on a loan-to-buy deal this summer.
Rangers have yet to confirm number changes for the upcoming season, but Cortes has reportedly “caught the eye more than most.” Hagi, who previously wore the number seven, is believed to be nearing an exit from Ibrox after agreeing to personal terms for a move back to his former club Fiorentina [SportpeSure, 21 July].
Oscar Cortes taking the number seven shirt from Ianis Hagi symbolizes the completion of a changing of the guard at Rangers. This transition also includes Mohamed Diomande now wearing Steven Davis’ old number 10.
Cortes, on loan from Lens, is set to become a permanent addition once the obligation in his deal is activated at the end of the new season. Despite only making seven appearances last term due to an injury, he impressed enough for the club to bring him back.
Manager Philippe Clement has made behind-the-scenes changes to address the club’s recent issues with player unavailability. Hagi, who missed over a year with a serious knee injury, is one of the many players affected by these fitness issues.
The winger, who spent last season on loan at Alaves, showed interest in continuing in La Liga [MARCA, 21 March]. However, a potential move to Serie A seems to be the best option for everyone involved. Clement and Nils Koppen have successfully begun integrating the next generation, including players like Cortes, Diomande, and Connor Barron.