Talks have resumed in the past few hours between Rangers FC and French Ligue 1 side LOSC, with Hamza Igamane reportedly pushing hard to complete a move away from Ibrox.
The Moroccan forward, who has been at the centre of a summer-long saga, has made it clear he wants a fresh start after a fractious start to the season under Russell Martin.
The Gers’ manager has publicly questioned Igamane’s fitness and commitment, further souring relations and signalling the end of the striker’s time at the club.
Igamane’s frustration has been mounting after Rangers held firm on their £15m valuation, rejecting previous offers. With the dressing room already unsettled and Martin struggling to maintain control, a transfer to Lille now seems the most viable way forward for all parties.
The forward’s refusal to play in recent fixtures, including the 1-1 draw against St Mirren, only intensified the sense that he is no longer part of the manager’s plans.
Rangers fans have witnessed a growing rift, with the combination of a toxic dressing room and Martin’s public criticisms leaving Igamane’s position untenable.
Sources close to the player suggest he is keen to finalise the move quickly, with both clubs negotiating the final terms.
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If completed, the transfer would end one of the most turbulent chapters of the season so far at Ibrox, while also marking a significant shift for Martin, who will now need to rebuild his squad without the striker he struggled to manage this term.
With Rangers six points behind Celtic after just three league games and the first Old Firm clash looming, Martin’s focus will now be on salvaging results while managing a squad under pressure.
Igamane’s exit could provide clarity but also highlights the challenges of the season ahead for both the manager and the club.