David Luiz’s Pafos make move for Rangers striker ahead of January deadline

The Cypriot title challengers have tabled a €2m bid for the Brazilian as Rangers look to resolve his future before the window closes.
David Luiz of Pafos seen during the UEFA Champions League...
David Luiz of Pafos seen during the UEFA Champions League... | SOPA Images/GettyImages

Fresh movement has emerged in the developing story around Danilo’s future, with Cypriot side Pafos reportedly entering the race for the Rangers forward.

After interest from the Dutch side NEC came to light earlier today, reports from the Scottish Sun now suggest Pafos have submitted a €2 million bid for the Brazilian.

The Cypriot club have established a reputation as aggressive operators in the market and are understood to be pushing to strengthen for their own title challenge in the second half of the season.

For Rangers, the approach is significant not just because of the destination, but because of the structure. The Ibrox club are believed to favour a permanent sale if Danilo is to leave this month, rather than a temporary move.

A €2 million offer would represent a sizeable loss on the €6 million fee paid to bring Danilo to Glasgow in 2023, but his spell at Ibrox has been defined by interruption.

Multiple injury setbacks have prevented him from establishing sustained momentum, and despite flashes of quality, including two Old Firm goals last season, one being in the Scottish League Cup final, consistency has proven elusive.

With Rangers actively exploring the market for another centre-forward, clarity around Danilo’s situation is increasingly important.

Pafos ambition is not in doubt. Their squad already contains several recognisable names, including Danilo’s compatriot David Luiz, while former Southampton wide-man Mislav Oršić and ex-Aberdeen goalkeeper Jay Gorter are also part of the group.

On the touchline is Albert Celades, whose playing career included spells with Barcelona and Real Madrid, adding further pedigree to the project.

That environment could appeal to Danilo as he looks to reset after a stop-start period in Scotland. Regular football in a side competing for silverware may offer the platform he needs to rebuild confidence and rhythm in a less physically demanding league and warmer climate.

Competition for his signature, however, has not disappeared. Dutch interest remains, while clubs in Denmark and Brazil have also been linked. Financially, though, it may prove difficult for some of those suitors, namely NEC, to match a straight €2 million bid, particularly if Rangers hold firm on a permanent deal.

The timing also matters. Rangers have reportedly tabled a €3 million Hansa Rostock striker Ryan Naderi as they look to reshape their attacking options ahead of the title run in.

Funds recouped from an outgoing deal would ease that process and help rebalance the squad.

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