Philippe Clement has acknowledged that Abdallah Sima will not be returning to Rangers unless Brighton lowers their asking price of £7 million. Rangers fans, who have been informed that they will have to begin the season watching their team at Hampden, would be thrilled to see Sima back in blue after his impressive loan spell last season. Sima was on track to compete for Scotland’s golden boot with 15 goals by January, but his bid was derailed by a serious injury sustained while on duty for the African Cup of Nations. After his three-month layoff, the 23-year-old only managed to score one more goal.
Both Clement and Sima were eager to continue their partnership for the new season. However, Clement has now admitted that a deal is unlikely unless Brighton reduces the transfer fee required to release Sima from the final year of his Seagulls contract. Clement stated, “I’ve been in touch with him, of course. He’s like one of my sons. Abdallah loves the club. Abdallah loves the way we played last season and his role in it. He loved his teammates and the staff. But ultimately, Brighton is the owner, so it’s all about the money. Currently, it’s not possible. But we will see if there is a possibility along the way because we would love to have him back.”
Clement may have to cope without one of last year’s standout performers, but he is excited about the return of South American duo Danilo and Oscar Cortes, who have both recovered from lengthy injuries.
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