FC Twente technical director Arnold Bruggink has admitted Robin Pröpper ‘took advantage’ of a clause in his contract to seal a move to Rangers.
Bruggink has been speaking to Tubantia about the player’s transfer to Ibrox, which was confirmed this week after Rangers moved quickly to wrap up a deal.
The defender has become the latest addition to Philippe Clement’s squad this summer as he continues to reshape the group, he inherited last year to better suit his needs.
He arrives to bolster the defensive options at Ibrox, bringing an end to a three-year stay with Twente, where he had been a key player since arriving on a free transfer from Heracles Almelo in July 2021.
The Dutch side are sorry to see him go, particularly as they have lost a key asset only five days before a Champions League preliminary round clash with Red Bull Salzburg.
Bruggink has now explained the background to the matter, telling his story to the newspaper ‘calmly and without emotion’ on the day the defender has been presented by Rangers as their latest summer signing.
“Last year we stopped Robin from going to a top foreign club. We then discussed the possible what-if situations that could arise next time. Then you sit down together and make agreements,” he said.
“If a club comes before midnight on July 31st that wants to pay the set amount, then he can go. And he has now taken advantage of that. That’s the way it is. This started two days before August 1st.
“The moment is not good. Not good for the trainers, the players, the supporters, the club. It’s still crazy. Suddenly an important link – who was in the middle of the group – is gone. Also, your captain.
“This is a great opportunity for Robin himself, and one that everyone also wishes him. The great thing for him is that he meets many acquaintances at Rangers: Danilo, Vaclav Cerny, Cyriel Dessers and Andries Ulderink.”
