Scottish Football Transfer Round-Up: Rangers Eye Genk Defender as Celtic Manager Race Heats Up
Scottish football’s winter transfer window is shaping up to be an intriguing one, with several clubs already positioning themselves for key moves both on and off the pitch. From Rangers’ defensive reshuffle to Celtic’s managerial search, there’s no shortage of drama brewing ahead of January.
Rangers appear to be the most active of the Premiership giants, with reports suggesting they are keen on Genk defender Mujaid Sadick. The 25-year-old Spaniard, who has been a consistent performer in Belgium’s top flight, has caught the eye of the Ibrox recruitment team. According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Rangers could formalise their interest in the player when the transfer window opens.
A move for Sadick could have further implications within the squad, with Nasser Djiga’s future in Glasgow now uncertain. The Burkina Faso international joined Rangers on loan from Wolves earlier this season but has struggled for regular minutes.
As reported by Ibrox News, should Rangers bolster their back line with Sadick or another defender, Djiga’s loan spell could be cut short, allowing him to return to Molineux ahead of schedule.
Elsewhere, Aberdeen are bracing for the possible departure of midfielder Sivert Heltne Nilsen, whose representatives have reportedly made contact with several Norwegian clubs.
The 34-year-old, currently sidelined through injury, may seek a return to his homeland to see out the latter stages of his career. According to the Press & Journal, Nilsen’s exit would open up space in Barry Robson’s squad as Aberdeen look to climb back into the Premiership’s top half.
At Hearts, skipper Lawrence Shankland has opened up about his recent resurgence in front of goal — and it turns out the key wasn’t on the training pitch, but in the kitchen. Speaking to the Daily Record, the Scotland international revealed he hired a dietician after struggling to shed stubborn weight, a decision he credits with helping him rediscover his sharpness.
“I couldn’t shift it on my own,” Shankland admitted. “Once I made some changes, I started feeling lighter, quicker — and the goals followed.”
Meanwhile, the managerial situation at Celtic continues to dominate headlines. Norwegian tactician Kjetil Knutsen, who has worked wonders with Bodo/Glimt since 2018, has now emerged as the frontrunner to take the permanent job at Parkhead, according to The Scotsman.
Knutsen’s attacking philosophy and record of developing young players have reportedly impressed the Celtic hierarchy, putting him ahead of veteran manager Martin O’Neill, who was previously tipped for a sensational return.
O’Neill, however, seems relaxed about the speculation. Quoted in the *Scottish Sun*, the former Celtic boss joked, “If it ends on Monday, I’ll go back to drinking coffee — though it’s rather expensive in London.”
With key transfer moves and managerial decisions looming, Scottish football fans can expect plenty more twists before January’s window even opens.