Rangers transfer latest as Southampton star submits request after failed Ibrox move

Rangers could potentially revisit their interest in Samuel Edozie after the Southampton winger submitted a transfer request.

The 23-year-old has publicly confirmed that he wants to leave St Mary's in search of regular first-team football, with the winger claiming that Southampton's demands have made it difficult for him to secure a move elsewhere.

Edozie revealed that he had opportunities to leave Southampton last summer and again in January, but the club prevented a departure on both occasions.

The winger says there have been multiple offers from clubs across Europe this summer but claims Southampton have requested as much as 50 per cent of any future transfer fee received by a prospective club.

That has made a move increasingly difficult to complete, with Edozie now formally asking to leave.

“I have submitted a transfer request,” Edozie said.

“I want to make it clear that this decision has nothing to do with the supporters or my teammates. I have a great deal of respect for both.

“However, at this stage of my career, I need the opportunity to play regular football.”

Rangers interest could return

Edozie is a familiar name to Rangers supporters after the Ibrox club came close to signing him on deadline day last summer.

A move ultimately collapsed before the window closed, despite Rangers showing significant interest in bringing the former Manchester City academy player to Scotland.

There has been no indication at this stage that Rangers have reopened negotiations for Edozie.

However, the situation could be worth monitoring as Derek McInnes looks for attacking options before the transfer window closes.

Rangers' pursuit of Amario Cozier-Duberry has become increasingly complicated, with Brighton having turned down previous bids for the winger as has the deal for Vaclav Cerny’s Ibrox return.

Should that move ultimately prove impossible, Edozie could potentially emerge as an alternative given Rangers' previous interest.

The Englishman has already demonstrated his desire to secure a move where he can play regularly, which could make a fresh Rangers approach possible if the club decide to return to a player they previously targeted.

Edozie explains Southampton frustration

Edozie made clear that his decision is based on footballing reasons rather than any dissatisfaction with Southampton's supporters or his teammates.

The winger believes he needs regular minutes at this stage of his career and does not want another season spent struggling for opportunities.

“A football career is short, and I believe it is important that I now have the opportunity to go somewhere I can play regularly, continue to develop and make the most of my career as a player,” he said.

His comments now put the pressure on Southampton to find a solution before the window closes.

There is currently no confirmation of renewed contact between Rangers and Edozie, but his availability is likely to attract attention from clubs looking for an attacking player before deadline day.

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