Rangers open talks to sign RB Salzburg target who scored two goals against Liverpool

Rangers have finally delivered the winger Derek McInnes wanted, but their work in attack may only be beginning.

Daisuke Yokota has completed a £3.5million move from Hannover and joined the squad in Poland ahead of the Europa League qualifier against Jagiellonia Bialystok.

REUTERS/Lisi Niesner

The Japanese attacker gives Rangers a left-footed option who enjoys cutting in from the right. His arrival was the ninth of a busy summer as McInnes continues rebuilding a squad that finished last season without a major trophy.

Lawrence Shankland has strengthened the forward line, while Cammy Devlin, Dan Neil and Ross McCrorie have increased the manager’s midfield options.

Ben Godfrey and Olwethu Makhanya have also arrived to reinforce the defence.

However, McInnes still wants more pace and unpredictability in wide areas.

Mikey Moore has returned to Tottenham following his loan and is now heading to Köln, while fellow target and ex-Ger Vaclav Cerny has been heavily linked, but an expensive deal to do.

Yokota can address that right side, but PSV winger Couhaib Driouech could offer a similar threat from the left.

The 24-year-old is quick, positive and eager to attack defenders. Although naturally right-footed, he is most comfortable starting on the left before driving inside or accelerating towards the byline.

Driouech came through Heerenveen’s academy before developing at Excelsior, where he experienced promotion and relegation battles.

Those demanding seasons gave him regular senior football and allowed his speed to become a genuine weapon in the Eredivisie.

PSV signed him for around £3 million in 2024 despite interest from Rangers, Sevilla and Sporting Lisbon at the time.

REUTERS/Piroschka Van De Wouw

Driouech later explained that the Dutch champions’ personal approach convinced him to remain in the Netherlands.

His time in Eindhoven has brought medals but not a guaranteed starting place.

An ankle injury disrupted his first campaign and kept him out for 55 days. Competition for attacking positions also meant much of his football came from the bench.

He made greater progress last season, amassing 40 appearances and nine goals across all competitions, including three goals in seven Champions League outings, with two coming against Liverpool.

Driouech helped PSV win a second consecutive Eredivisie title, but younger winger Amir Bouhamdi has moved ahead of him during preparations for the new campaign.

That has opened the door for Rangers.

Rangers open talks to sign PSV winger Couhaib Driouech

Reuters/Jason Cairnduff

Voetbal International journalist Joost Blaauwhof reports that Rangers have opened negotiations with PSV over a permanent deal.

The Dutch club are prepared to discuss Driouech’s departure, while the winger is understood to be keen on a move to Glasgow after choosing PSV over Rangers two years ago.

RB Salzburg are also suitors, but Blaauwhof describes the Teddy Bears as favourites.

PSV remain protected by a contract running until 2029 and are reportedly seeking a package worth around £7 million, including bonuses.

The story has already moved quickly since Blaauwhof’s initial update.

Further reporting from PSV specialist Rik Elfrink claims Rangers have submitted their first multi million-pound offer, but it has been rejected because it fell below the Dutch club’s valuation.

REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

Driouech is still said to favour the move and Rangers are believed to have a long-term contract ready for him.

That leaves the clubs negotiating over price rather than trying to convince the player.

If Rangers can find a compromise, McInnes would have two dangerous new wingers capable of attacking from opposite sides.

Yokota provides the first piece, and Driouech could now complete a major transformation of the Ibrox attack before the transfer window closes.