Kartal Yilmaz has opened up on how he nearly joined Rangers last year.

The Turkish midfielder insists there was interest from the Ibrox club as they signed his namesake Ridvan for £5m in the summer of 2022.

The 23-year-old admits while it was a blow not getting the move, his career ambitions remain high.

The midfielder is currently on loan at Kayserispor from Turkish giants Besiktas.

Kartal has explained that Rangers were keen on signing him, however, there were certain conditions that the Glasgow side did not meet and therefore a deal could not be reached.

He told Hurriyet: "At that time, Glasgow Rangers was also interested in me after Ridvan Yılmaz.

"I know this personally, but the transfer did not take place at that time because some conditions were not met.

"Of course, time will tell what will happen next. I believe that I will achieve my European dream as soon as possible. I want to play for Barcelona in La Liga one day."

Meanwhile, Scotland international Lewis Ferguson is a player in demand.

The midfielder has become a key player for Bologna since joining the Serie A club two years ago.

READ MORE: Lewis Ferguson transfer latest as EPL duo 'enter race'

Last week, it was reported that Juventus were looking to test their league rivals' resolve with a bid for the 24-year-old. It's also believed that AC Milan are interested.

However, now it has emerged that two Premier League clubs are looking closely at the former Hamilton Accies and Aberdeen player.

The Mirror states that Fulham and Nottingham Forest have joined the race to sign the Bologna star.

Ferguson - son of ex-Rangers player Derek and nephew of ex-Ibrox captain Barry - has scored three goals and notched as many assists in 14 Serie A appearances this term.

While there is plenty of interest from fellow Italian clubs, this report states that Bologna's preference would be to sell to the Premier League.