Rangers appear to be edging closer to securing one of their key January targets, with Sturm Graz sporting director Michael Parensen confirming that a deal for midfielder Tochi Chukwuani is effectively agreed.
The 22-year-old is expected to complete a move to Ibrox for a fee believed to be around €4.6 million, as Danny Rohl continues to shape his squad for the title run-in and beyond – starting with tomorrow's trip to face Aberdeen at Pittodrie.
Speaking openly about the negotiations, Parensen revealed that Rangers and Sturm Graz already have a verbal agreement in place, though the Austrian club are waiting for all paperwork to be finalised before making any official announcement.
“We have a verbal agreement with Rangers,” Parensen said.
“But I've seen so much with transfers over the years. So, we won't announce the deal until everything is signed.”
While cautious in tone, his comments strongly suggest that the move is now a formality rather than a question of if. Sturm Graz are already preparing for life without Chukwuani, with Parensen confirming that a replacement with a similar profile will be brought in once the midfielder completes his switch to Scotland.
“If and when Tochi moves to Scotland, a player with a similar profile will come to Sturm Graz,” he added.
“We know that things will get a bit tight in the squad.”
From a Rangers perspective, the potential signing represents another step in Clement’s long-term recruitment strategy. Chukwuani fits the club’s growing preference for young, athletic players with technical ability and development potential.
At 22, he offers both immediate depth and future resale value, while also addressing the need for energy, strength and versatility in midfield.
The Danish-born midfielder, standing at over 6-foot 2, who has previously played in Denmark before moving to Austria, has already spoken about the qualities he would bring to a new club – and Rangers fans can expect a player comfortable on the ball and capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch.
“I think my greatest strength is my ball control,” Chukwuani said previously.
“I'm a player who can contribute both defensively and offensively. I showed a lot, especially in an attacking sense, when I played in Denmark.”
That blend of technical security and two-way midfield play is something Rangers have spoken about improving this window, with poor control costing the side particularly in European competition and high-intensity domestic fixtures where composure in possession can be decisive.
Chukwuani is also clearly driven by self-improvement, highlighting his desire to develop further on the technical side of his game.
“I want to continue to improve and fulfil my full potential,” he explained.
“I believe I can also improve my technical ability and that's my priority.”
A reported €4.6 million investment also reflects a growing confidence in the club’s recruitment model, focusing on players who can contribute now while still offering long-term upside.
Chukwuani’s age, versatility and skill set suggest he could become a valuable asset in the Rangers midfield for years to come.