‘It's good business for us’ — Rangers boss confirms plan to sell Dessers

Rangers boss Russell Martin has confirmed that Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers is expected to leave Ibrox before the transfer window slams shut on Monday night.

The Super Eagles forward, who finished last season as the club’s top scorer, appears to have played his final game for the Scottish giants.

Dessers returned from injury during Sunday’s goalless Old Firm derby at Ibrox, coming on for Bojan Miovski with less than twenty minutes to play.

His brief cameo drew attention not only for his effort on the pitch but also for his wave to the home fans, which many interpreted as a parting gesture.

Speaking after the match, Martin left little room for doubt about the striker’s future. “I think Cyriel has probably played his last game for the club,” the manager told Sky Sports.

He admitted the transfer was the right move at this stage of the player’s career and beneficial to Rangers’ plans going forward. “It’s good business for us, it’s good for him,” Martin added, while also acknowledging uncertainty about other squad members ahead of deadline day.

Dessers has attracted strong interest from abroad, with Serie A side Hellas Verona and Greek giants Panathinaikos linked with a deal. Reports suggest negotiations with Panathinaikos are now at an advanced stage, raising the likelihood of a swift move.

The 30-year-old striker, who netted regularly in his first season in Scotland, now looks set to continue his career outside the Premiership.

His next destination could be finalised before Monday’s 11pm deadline, after which attention will turn to Nigeria’s September World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Rwanda.

Having been named in the 23-man squad, Dessers will aim to finally add competitive international appearances to his record.