Lille re-open talks with Rangers for Hamza Igamane

Lille have returned to negotiate a deal for Hamza Igamane from Rangers, according to Foot Mercato.

Despite agreeing to personal terms with the player, the Mastiffs’ initial proposal for the Moroccan was rejected, as it fell short of Rangers’ valuation.

The centre-forward scored 12 goals in 33 matches last season in the Scottish Premiership.

He moved to the Scottish club in January from AS FAR back in 2024 and has attracted attention after strong performances for Morocco’s U23 side and in last season’s Europa League.

In the meantime, Feyenoord have entered the race for Igamane, further complicating matters for the French club. Sacha Tavolieri reports that Everton and Udinese have also registered their interest.

However, with the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, Rangers manager Russell Martin has revealed that Igamane refused to come on during the 1-1 draw with St Mirren, claiming to be injured.

The Scottish manager was asked by Sky Sports if there was a temptation to throw on Igamane in the second half; Martin quickly hit back: “Hamza told me he was injured.”

“So, we had a bid for Hamza this week, we rejected it, and all was fine. He trained fine yesterday, warmed up fine, and he turned round at 60 minutes because I wanted two strikers on the pitch – that’s why Danny (Danilo) and Gass (Gassama) ended up there, and Hamza told me he is injured.”

The reporter further asked if the frontman was now refusing to play. Martin responded, “I don’t know. I have to trust him, but we will wait and see.”

After the departure of Jonathan David to Juventus, Lille will try to add the Moroccan to their ranks to bolster their attack.