Ibrox View: Rohl's latest comments suggest exit-linked Rangers ace is going nowhere

Emmanuel Fernandez has been constantly linked with a Rangers exit in recent weeks.

The Nigerian defender has been brilliant this season, making 28 appearances in all competitions across the campaign.

That has led to significant interest from the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen.

Reports had claimed that the Gers had resigned themselves to losing Fernandez, but Danny Rohl‘s latest comments suggest that he is going nowhere in the summer.

Whether Rangers can convince that his future remains at Ibrox remains to be seen, but they will be in no rush to sell him.

What did Rohl say about Fernandez’s Rangers future?

Rangers do not want to lose Fernandez, which has been made pretty clear by the German manager’s comments.

Rohl highlighted several factors as to why the player would want to stay in Govan, rather than leaving for greener pastures.

Speaking in his pre-Motherwell press conference on 24 April, he said: “We should not forget one year ago, he played in League One.

“Now, he plays for a big club, and if everything goes well as we want, maybe he can play next year at the highest competition.

“I think we have a lot of argument, good training squad, fantastic stadium, nice city, and good fans, owners, and the group together are the things that help us for players to develop and play at the highest level of football.”

Why keeping Fernandez would be statement of intent

It would be a huge statement of intent if the 49ers Enterprises group and Andrew Cavenagh could manage to keep one of their best players around, given the level of interest in his services.

Fernandez has been a key asset for Rohl since he took over at Auchenhowie, and he could be crucial to the Gers’ chances of success next season, and more importantly, their chances of winning the Scottish Premiership title.

The reluctance to allow him to leave is clear, and it makes sense, as it would weaken the Glasgow side massively if he were to depart, and they would have to find a capable replacement.

Hopefully, the factors that Rohl listed can convince the 24-year-old to stick around beyond the end of the season, despite the number of prestigious clubs that want to sign him.

The Light Blues are in a strong position when it comes to his contract, he is tied down until 2029 with the option to extend by a further year, so they do not have to sell.

If Rohl wants to keep him around, then he may well end up staying for another season, with the potential to reassess the situation next summer, when his value could be even higher.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.