Rangers took Ianis Hagi on a short-term loan deal from Genk in the winter market and have an option to make the Romania international’s move permanent in the summer.
According to Belgium’s Het Laatste Nieuws, the Scottish club have negotiated a purchase option of €5m with the Jupiler Pro League side.
Steven Gerrard is aware of the Romania international’s profile and knows he can be a great addition to his side next season.
Despite their manager’s stance, it’s stated Rangers are not expected to exercise the option to make Hagi’s transfer permanent because he’s ‘too expensive’ for them.
The 21-year-old has also been on the radar of Lazio as the Serie A club are believed to be interested in acquiring his services. Rangers’ decision to not sign Hagi on permanent transfer would come as a welcome boost to the Italian capital club.
Felice Mazzù was Genk’s manager when they took Hagi from Viitorul Constanța last summer.
The coach, who was relieved from his duties in November, has discussed recent reports linking Hagi to Lazio, and also sent a message to Genk.
“I don’t think it’s bizarre for Lazio to be interested in Ianis,” Mazzù told Het Laatste Nieuws.
“He is and remains a very good player. (thinks) Only he – and by extension his entourage – have to learn to be more patient. He shouldn’t want to go too fast, not skip stages.
“Look: if I am still a trainer in Genk, I would definitely like to keep him. He can become an important player in the future.
“I am convinced that Ianis can succeed in the Belgian league. He still has to grow physically and in terms of explosiveness. But technically… I haven’t seen anyone else who was that good with both feet. Left or right, you didn’t see the difference.”
