LILLE have backed down in their pursuit of Rangers star Hamza Igamane, after being put off by the Ibrox club’s asking price.
The Ligue 1 side made a serious push to sign the Light Blues forward this week, going as far as reportedly agreeing personal terms.
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Gers bought the Moroccan for £1.7million last summer but were demanding a transfer fee in the region of £15million for the 22-year-old.
The player himself was reported to be keen on exploring the move after talks were held with his agent but Lille weren’t willing to match Rangers’ evaluation.
According to the Daily Record, the French outfit have now switched their focus to other targets on their summer wishlist until such a point as Gers reduce his price tag.
It’s understood that is unlikely however, with the Light Blues not wanting to be pressured to rushing into a sale.
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Reports claim the Ibrox club have received NO official bid from Lille, suggesting the Mastiffs were indeed put off by the hefty fee.
With around £20million of investment coming this summer thanks to their new owners, Rangers will be comfortable that they don’t need to accept offers for key players that don’t meet their valuations.
The likes of Mohamed Diomande and Nicolas Raskin have also attracted interest and both have three years remaining on their current deals.
Igamane has four years remaining on his contract and after an eye-catching first season in Scottish football, his value is only likely to increase over the next 12 to 18 months, by which time Gers may look to cash in.
After initially struggling to break into the team under Philippe Clement last year, Igamane became a rare bright spot for the Ibrox faithful in an otherwise faltering season.
In the end he scored 16 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions and provided three assists.
The highlight of his season would no doubt be the stunning winner he struck in the Old Firm derby victory against Celtic back in March.
Igamane has also been the subject of reported interest from Premier League side Everton, as well as another French club in Marseille.
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