Lewis Ferguson appears to have little interest in a return to Scotland any time soon, with his agent making it clear the Bologna midfielder’s ambitions remain firmly focused on competing at the highest level in Europe.
The former Aberdeen captain has regularly been linked with Rangers over the past few years, particularly given his consistent showings in Serie A and growing reputation within the Italian game.
But comments from his agent Bill McMurdo strongly suggest a move to Ibrox is not currently under consideration.
Lewis Ferguson agent dashes Rangers’ hopes
Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb, McMurdo discussed Ferguson’s future at Bologna amid speculation surrounding a possible contract renewal.
“Lewis has two years left on his contract,” he explained.
“We’ll meet with the club soon to assess whether they’d like to offer him a contract extension or let it expire.”
While Ferguson remains settled in Italy, interest around the 26-year-old continues to grow following another impressive campaign in Serie A.
Naturally, that has led to questions over whether he could eventually move on from Bologna, but McMurdo’s comments pointed firmly toward Europe’s elite leagues rather than a return north of the border.
“Lewis is more than ready to play for one of the so-called big Italian clubs if they show interest in him and Bologna is willing to let him leave,” he said.
“He wants to play at the highest level possible and continue to develop his career.”
Top five pull
That stance will likely disappoint sections of the Rangers support who have long admired Ferguson and viewed him as a potential future leader at Ibrox.
His energy, aggression and leadership qualities appear tailor-made for Scottish football, particularly in a current Rangers side devoid of the same attributes.
He also has familial ties, with his father Derek and uncle Barry also former Ibrox stars.
His progression in Italy has only strengthened the perception that he could elevate Rangers’ midfield significantly.
However, McMurdo also made it clear that Ferguson’s ambitions stretch beyond Scotland entirely.
“He would consider offers from any of the top five footballing countries, with Italy and England being his first choices,” the agent added.
“Lewis is more than happy to stay at Bologna, but he’s equally ready to take on any new challenge to advance his career.
“Any move, however, should be beneficial for all parties.”
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Therefore, unless Ferguson’s priorities dramatically change later in his career, the financial and competitive pull of Serie A and the English Premier League make a return to Scotland highly unlikely in the near future.
At 26 and entering the prime years of his career, Ferguson clearly sees himself competing at the top end of European football and not returning home just yet.
Rangers target League One striker
Elsewhere Rangers have also been linked with Plymouth Argyle Lorent Tolaj over a summer move.
The attacker impressed during an excellent season with Plymouth, attracting growing interest ahead of the summer transfer window.
Danny Rohl is looking to strengthen Rangers’ forward line for next campaign and has identified the 24-year-old as a potential target.
The Swiss frontman registered 18 goals and eight assists over the course of the season, playing a pivotal role in Plymouth’s push for the play-offs.
But with the Pilgrims ultimately falling short of a top six finish and consigned to another year in England’s third tier, uncertainty has emerged surrounding Tolaj’s future at the club.
Should Bojan Miovski depart in the summer, the forward would offer an appealing and consistent threat to replace the Macedonian.
