Rangers add Lille defender Fernandes on loan

Rangers have signed Lille defender Rafael Fernandes on loan for the remainder of the season, with an option to make the move permanent in the summer.

The 22-year-old moved to France from Arouca in his native Portugal 12 months ago but has not featured in Ligue 1.

The Ibrox side have been hit by a series of defensive injuries of late, with John Souttar and Dujon Sterling currently sidelined and Neraysho Kasanwirjo a long-term absentee.

“He is a young defender who brings with him a lot of qualities which will be an asset for our team,” said manager Philippe Clement of Fernandes. “He has a lot of potential, and I am looking forward to working with him.”

Capped at under-18 and under-20 level for Portugal, Fernandes told the Rangers website: “It was a club I wanted to come to since I heard about the interest and I am really happy to finally be here.

“My first impressions have been really good, I met some of my colleagues, some of the staff and all of them made me comfortable to start this new challenge.”