Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
GERS EYE ACE UMAR
Roma striker’s ready to sign loan deal but Davis return unlikely
RANGERS are closing in on a loan move for Nigerian striker Umar Sadiq.
The Roma hitman could even arrive in Glasgow next week to rubber stamp his deal if there are no issues around his work permit status.
But reports of a swoop on Southampton for former skipper and Northern Ireland star Steven Davis are wide of the mark.
Rangers have also dismissed suggestions Josh
Windass has a £3million release clause amid interest from Cardiff.
Sadiq cost Roma £2m from Spezia and still has three years left on his deal at the Olympic Stadium but boss Eusebio di Francesco is ready to let him go on his fourth loan stint.
Sadiq has yet to make a top team appearance for Roma and spent last season on loan at NAC Breda, netting five goals in 12 games. Pal Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman claims his buddy will become Gers’ eighth summer signing, with Gerrard’s arrival at Rangers a key factor.
He told his radio show Liberty Sports Ride: “Sadiq has agreed to join Rangers because at Roma the coach couldn’t guarantee him regular run of games if he stays, something he knows he can get in Scotland. “The catch has to be the chance of working with Gerrard. The move should be done by next week.
“He recently got married to his Italian girlfriend so the work permit won’t be an issue.”
But a popular move for 33-year-old Davis (inset) appears less likely despite rumours the Ibrox club is interested in reuniting with its former midfielder. Sources said Davis, who made 152 appearances for Rangers between 2008 and 2012 as he won eight trophies, is not on their radar at present.