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Rangers add Lille defender Fernandes on loan

Rafael FernandesImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Fernandes signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at Lille in January 2024

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Rangers have signed Lille defender Rafael Fernandes on loan for the remainder of the season, with an option to make the move permanent in the summer.

The 22-year-old moved to from Arouca in his native Portugal 12 months ago but has not featured in Ligue 1.

The Ibrox side have been hit by a series of defensive injuries of late, with John Souttar and Dujon Sterling currently sidelined and Neraysho Kasanwirjo a long-term absentee.

"He is a young defender who brings with him a lot of qualities which will be an asset for our team," said manager Philippe Clement of Fernandes. "He has a lot of potential, and I am looking forward to working with him."

Capped at under-18 and under-20 level for Portugal, Fernandes told the Rangers website: "It was a club I wanted to come to since I heard about the interest and I am really happy to finally be here.

"My first impressions have been really good, I met some of my colleagues, some of the staff and all of them made me comfortable to start this new challenge."