Rangers have entered the race to sign 19-year-old Nigerian defender Akpe Victory from Hungarian club Zalaegerszegi TE, aiming to secure his signature ahead of Portuguese champions Benfica. The centre-back, who stands 6ft 5in, has attracted attention across Europe following a breakout season that included 15 senior appearances and one goal. His performances helped Zalaegerszeg reach the Hungarian Cup final, where they faced Ferencvárosi TC at Budapest's Puskas Arena. Transfer insider Jacobs Ben confirms Rangers have opened talks with Victory's representatives and are preparing a bid worth approximately £4.5 million. Benfica have also made an approach for the defender, while scouts from clubs in Germany, Spain and France continue to monitor his progress. Victory, born in Abuja, previously played for Hyraj Academy in Lagos and FK Banga Gargždai in Lithuania before joining Zalaegerszeg. His physical dominance, composure on the ball and ability to anticipate danger have drawn praise from Hungarian football observers. Rangers manager Danny Rohl is prioritising defensive reinforcements after his side lost momentum in the Scottish Premiership title race, suffering four defeats in their first four post-split top-six matches. Victory is under contract with Zalaegerszeg until 2028, with the club holding an option to extend by a further year, giving them strong leverage in negotiations. The long-term deal suggests any transfer would require a substantial fee, making the summer window a potential flashpoint for European interest.
Rangers are chasing a teenage defender whose only senior goal and 15 appearances came in Hungary's second-tier-influenced league, not a proven top-flight environment. The club's push for Victory suggests a shift toward speculative recruitment after falling short in the title race by losing four straight post-split games. With Benfica also in pursuit, the bidding could inflate beyond £4.5m for a player yet to face elite competition. Victory's contract until 2028 gives Zalaegerszeg the upper hand, meaning Rangers may have to pay a premium for unproven potential.
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