Akpe Victory: Rangers step up move for Nigerian defender – why he’s top target

Scottish Premiership side Rangers have emerged as frontrunners to sign Nigerian defender Akpe Victory from Zalaegerszegi ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The young centre-back has become a major transfer target for several clubs after an impressive breakout season in Hungary and is expected to leave this summer once his valuation is met by interested sides.

The 19-year-old joined Zalaegerszegi during the winter transfer window and quickly established himself in the team, helping the club reach the Hungarian Cup final before they were defeated by Ferencváros. He went on to make about 16 appearances across all competitions, scoring once, and has now been widely tipped for a summer exit.

Why Rangers want Akpe Victory

Akpe Victory’s impressive performances in the Hungarian league have attracted interest from several top clubs, who are all monitoring his progress closely ahead of the transfer window. The likes of Strasbourg and Benfica are also in the race and are providing competition for Rangers in the battle to seal his signature.

Reports from Footy-Africa reveal that the Nigerian defender remains calm about his future despite growing transfer interest and is focused on improving his game. However, Rangers have stepped up their pursuit and are currently leading the race for the signature of the young Nigerian. 

The Scottish giants are targeting him as a defensive reinforcement for next season as they look to strengthen their squad in order to challenge Celtic and Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race and they view Victory as a major long-term target for several reasons.

One of the main reasons behind their interest is his physical profile and presence. Standing at 6 foot 5, the 19-year-old is a commanding defender who uses his strength effectively to dominate attackers and also to win physical duels and one-on-one battles while helping to sniff out opposition attacks.

His height also gives him a major advantage in aerial duels, allowing him to win headers consistently and he can also be useful in the opposition box during set pieces, where his presence provides a strong target for deliveries into dangerous areas.

Victory’s age is another major factor behind Rangers’ interest. The club sees him as a long-term project who can develop well in the right environment and also become an important part of the squad for years to come. There is also another possibility of him being developed and later sold on for profit.

Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the future of fellow Nigerian Emmanuel Fernandez, who has been linked with a move away, with Arsenal reportedly ready to step up their pursuit as they look for a replacement for William Saliba, who could miss the opening weeks of the season due to injury.

If Fernandez does leave, Akpe Victory could arrive as a direct replacement in defence. However, if he stays, the two Nigerians could also form a partnership at the back, with Victory complementing Fernandez’s qualities.

Zalaegerszeg have already rejected several offers for his signature, but Rangers could push for a deal in the coming weeks if they manage to meet the €5 million valuation.