View: Rangers face seven-figure problem as player set for Ibrox return in summer

Rangers will need to work out a new plan for Clinton Nsiala as the defender is now unlikely to join Westerlo on a permanent basis.

Nsiala was snapped up by the Belgian club in the winter transfer window on a loan deal that runs until the end of the campaign.

Westerlo had the option of turning that temporary arrangement into a permanent one in the summer for an undisclosed fee.

But after failing to make an impact at his loan club, it appears Nsiala will be back at Ibrox in a couple of months’ time.

That is not good news for Rangers, who are now likely to have to find another new club for the full-back in the summer transfer window.

Westerlo decide against permanent Clinton Nsiala deal

It was reported on deadline day in February that Westerlo would have to pay a seven-figure fee to sign Nsiala from Rangers on a permanent basis.

That would be considered good business for the Belgian side based on Nsiala’s past reputation as an AC Milan graduate.

It would be good business for the Gers, too, as it is clear 22-year-old was never going to make it in Glasgow.

However, a report via Saturday’s Gazet van Antwerpen all but puts an end to that deal being agreed in the close-season.

Instead, in a run-down of Westerlo’s likely transfer business ahead of next season, it is stated that Nsiala will “return to Rangers” once his loan expires.

Exactly what is next for Nsiala is unclear, but it is unlikely there will be room for him in Danny Rohl‘s squad.

How has Nsiala performed on loan for Westerlo?

Nsiala has only been at Westerlo for a couple of months, having joined late on in the winter window.

And he has been restricted to just three Jupiler Pro League outings in that time – each of those being starts – due to a sending off against Union Saint-Gilloise a month ago.

That saw the Rennes native sit out three matches up to the international break, so it may well be that he returns to the side against Sporting Charleroi on Sunday.

In fairness, Nsiala has not really had much of a chance across 185 minutes of action to show what he is capable of for Westerlo.

If he hits the ground running upon his return, who is to say the Belgians won’t then look to open discussions for Rangers.

Ultimately, though, it seems more likely he will be back at Ibrox and at a crossroads in his career before too long.

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