Talks over Nedim Bajrami's Rangers future have taken another twist, with Saudi Pro League side Al Taawoun now emerging as the favourites to sign the Albanian international.
Bajrami had appeared to be leaning towards a return to Italy with several Serie A and Serie B clubs interested after negotiations progressed through intermediaries in Italy.
However, discussions have stalled over the structure of the deal, with Rangers insisting on a permanent transfer or a loan with an obligation to buy, with Italian clubs cautious over committing after two years of indifferent form in Scotland from the player.
That impasse has opened the door for another club to move into pole position.
Saudi Pro League side chase Bajrami deal
However, according to the latest reports from the Scottish Sun, Al Taawoun are now the frontrunners for Bajrami's signature and are exploring a deal that would see the midfielder join on loan with an option to buy.
The proposed purchase clause is understood to be worth £2.1 million. The structure of the offer could yet prove decisive.
Rangers want permanent exit for Albania international
Rangers have consistently preferred a permanent sale as Derek McInnes continues reshaping his squad before the transfer window closes, although an obligation or realistic route to a permanent move could still be considered if it satisfies the club's financial demands.
Bajrami has been expected to leave Ibrox for much of the summer after falling out of McInnes' first-team plans, with interest from Italy remaining throughout the window.
However, Al Taawoun's emergence represents a significant change in the race for his signature and could now accelerate the midfielder's departure.
Whether Rangers are prepared to accept a loan with an option to buy remains the key question, but with the Saudi club now leading the chase, Bajrami's long-awaited exit from Ibrox may finally be edging closer.
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