Jhon Arias acknowledges that it is not shocking to hear suggestions that he is interested in joining Rangers, despite Fluminense being the Copa Libertadores champions.
But, it’s crucial to give some background information before you all get too excited.
Late last month, Jhon Arias and Rangers were connected through TEAMtalk. However, everything that has surfaced since then points to Philippe Clement not wanting to hold his breath. Globo Esporte reports that Fluminense is attempting to raise closer to £17 million, while Russian powerhouse Zenit St Petersburg has had its bid of £10.5 million refused.
As such, Arias is more than a little rich for Rangers’ blood.
Maybe a deal could, could, have been possible with the riches of Champions League football. But, without the UCL to boost Clement’s coffers, the chances of Arias ending up at Ibrox can probably best be described as ‘slim’.
Rangers linked with Jhon Arias
Nonetheless, the rumours are not taking the 26-year-old by surprise, telling Caracol Radio that Fluminense have been preparing for this day for quite a while already.
“(The rumours are) something natural, something normal. As the days and time go by, more offers and proposals will arrive and many more interested clubs will arrive,” the Colombia international explains.
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“It is something that the club is aware of and has already been discussed.
“I am focused on finishing the year well and we will have to make decisions, but it doesn’t take the club or me by surprise because it was already something that was expected.”
Arias’ agent confirmed earlier in the week that a number of clubs based in the English Premier League have made their interest known, Wolves, West Ham and Burnley among those linked.
South American expert Tim Vickery, meanwhile, believes the ‘dynamic’ and ‘very versatile’ Arias has been Fluminense’s stand-out performer in 2023, even ahead of the £30 million-rated Liverpool target Andre Trindade.
