Botafogo are closing in on an agreement to sign Rangers striker Danilo, with the Brazilian side in advanced talks over a loan move that could include a permanent transfer.
The purchase clause would become active based on the number of appearances Danilo makes during his spell in Brazil, giving Botafogo the opportunity to secure the striker on a permanent basis if he establishes himself in the side.
Rangers' striking situation
Danilo remains under contract at Rangers until June 2028, meaning the Ibrox club would retain long-term control over the player's future should the buy option not be triggered.
The proposed departure comes after Danilo slipped down Derek McInnes' striking pecking order ahead of the new season.
The Brazilian is currently viewed as Rangers' fifth-choice centre-forward, with Yousef Chermiti expected to lead the line again this season.
January arrival Ryan Naderi has also moved ahead of Danilo, who was loaned out to the Dutch Eredivisie ahead of his arrival in the winter, while Scotland international Lawrence Shankland provides further competition in attack after his summer switch from Hearts alongside Bojan Miovski.
Failed return to the Netherlands
He scored one goal in 12 games during a loan with NEC Nijmegen, netting a historic goal against former club Feyenoord to ensure a record-breaking points haul for his side.
He however, failed to impress overall and it quickly became clear he would return to Scotland this summer.
“Looking at [Danilo’s] performances, it doesn’t seem likely NEC will make decision,” he said.
Return to Brazil looming for Danilo
With first-team opportunities likely to be limited, a move back to Brazil would offer Danilo the chance to play regular football while allowing Rangers to reduce competition in an increasingly crowded forward department.
The striker is a former Brazil U23 international but has struggled in Scotland with numerous injury woes since his 2023 arrival.
McInnes has reshaped his attacking options during the summer transfer window, with Rangers' recruitment focusing on adding greater physicality and goalscoring depth as they prepare for the new campaign.
Should an agreement with Botafogo be finalised, Danilo would become the first senior outfield player to leave Ibrox this summer whose contract has not ended, as Rangers continue balancing incomings and outgoings before the transfer window closes.
Add us as a preferred source on Google