The former West Ham target is now in talks to join Rangers as he is confirmed to leave in the summer

Rangers are believed to be in talks with the soon-to-be free agent that West Ham has targeted back in 2023.

Rangers players are fighting for the hearts of the one who could decide the title

Rangers head into what could be a defining night in their title race next Monday, with a trip to Tynecastle to face Hearts carrying a lot of importance.

With the top margins so tight, it’s the kind of play that could shape the outcome of the entire season.

Tynecastle has never been an easy place to travel to, especially as the standard is so high. Hearts have their title ambitions and pride on the line, and Rangers will need to be mentally and physically sharp.

Matches like this often come down to the finer details – a quality moment, a defensive lapse, or a decision under pressure.

For the Rangers, the challenge is not just managing the event, but maintaining consistency.

Their form has been strong enough to keep them in the hunt, however there is little room for error at this stage, especially after falling at home to Motherwell last weekend.

The points dropped against Hearts may now seem decisive, which only adds to the importance of delivering a controlled and disciplined performance.

While the focus is on that upcoming round, work behind the scenes is already piling up ahead of the summer window.

One position under consideration appears to be full-back, linked with FC Metz defender Koffi Kouao.

Koffi Kouao in talks to join Rangers with FC Metz exit confirmed

According to a report by Media Foot, Rangers are among the few clubs looking for the 27-year-old player, who is guaranteed to leave Metz at the end of the season when his contract expires.

The Ivory Coast player has announced his intention to move on, especially since Metz is about to be relegated from Ligue 1, and Media Foot state Rangers are among the clubs he has promised that negotiations are ongoing.

Kouao has been considering his future since last winter, according to a report, with the Teddy Bears looking to sign him on a free transfer.

The fullback brings a strong level of experience.

He has been a regular for Metz since joining in 2022, making 120 appearances for the club in various competitions.

This season alone, he played a lot, playing over 2,000 minutes in the league while scoring two goals and two assists on the right side.

Primarily a right back, he is capable of operating on the left or in a more advanced role. That flexibility could appeal to Danny Rohl, especially with James Tavernier set to leave Ibrox this summer.

Born in Abidjan, he developed at ASEC Mimosas before moving to Europe, where he built his career in Portugal with Vizela and loan spells at Moreirense and Famalicão.

His development was gradual, gaining experience in different leagues before entering French football.

At 27, he is entering what many would consider his prime. He is not a long-term project, but rather a player who can come in ready to compete and contribute immediately.

Interestingly, Kouao was a target for David Moyes at West Ham in 2023, according to reports in France at the time.

For now, attention remains firmly on the field.

A result against Hearts could bring Rangers closer to the title, setting the tone for how the season will be remembered.