Rangers could receive a Europa League boost as Real Betis star Luiz Felipe is poised to leave the LaLiga club.
The 26-year-old has been the subject of transfer interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad and now reports in Spain suggest the defender is ready to make the move.
Felipe, who joined Manuel Pellegrini's side four years ago, is considered a key player for Real Betis.
The Light Blues welcome the Spanish club to Ibrox on matchday one of their Europa League group stage and it looks like the former Lazio man will not be involved.
It comes after Pellegrini was adamant the defender would be staying after his side's recent victory over Rayo Vallecano.
He said: "I don't think Luiz Felipe will be sold. It was a possibility until the 31st, now it would be irresponsible to stay with just two centre-backs."
However, it now looks like he will compete and £18million move to the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Scott Arfield has issued a defence of Rangers captain James Tavernier insisting that the Englishman has a strong mentality.
The Ibrox captain has come under criticism with some suggesting that he and defensive teammates Connor Goldson and Borna Barisic lack a winning edge in their heads.
Arfield totally disagrees with that suggestion and he has backed Tavernier to continue a hugely successful spell at the club.
He told The Athletic:"“It’s extremely unfair. Mentality can come in many ways.
"Tav has played more than 400 games and never misses anything. Talk about mentality as a professional, how many would crumble at just the thought of going to play in front of 50,000?
"It’s a completely different thing. "If you’re putting yourself on the line every time, then sometimes you’re going to lose."
