Rangers poised to hijack Sheffield United’s Oliver Antman move, the next 48 hours are crucial

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Despite appearing to lead the race to sign Oliver Antman just days ago, Sheffield United could now be beaten to the Finnish star by Rangers.

Sheffield United are slowly but surely starting to show signs of progress under new manager Ruben Selles both on and off the pitch.

The signing of Louie Barry adds real quality to the squad, while the Blades looked impressive in their pre-season win over Chesterfield this weekend.

Then, reports on Sunday claimed United were in pole position to sign Oliver Antman. But that’s all changed already.

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Rangers agree deal for Oliver Antman

Antman has been offered to numerous Championship clubs this summer, including Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City.

After topping the Eredivisie assist charts with 17 contributions last season, it’s easy to see why there’s a battle for his signature.

But, it seems Scottish giants Rangers will now win the race. That’s according to the Daily Record, who claim Russell Martin’s side have now agreed a fee with Go Ahead Eagles for the winger.

It is said a move could be finalised in the next 24-48 hours, with talks already having taken place to get a deal over the line.

Apparently, Antman could cost Rangers up to £5m. The report claims progress has been made between the two clubs and with the player himself, too.

Rangers have already bagged the impressive Djeidi Gassama from Sheffield Wednesday this summer, and now they could inflict more misery on the other half of the Steel City with this transfer.

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Sheffield United must find an alternative to Oliver Antman

Previous reports had claimed Sheffield United had raised the funds needed to sign Antman, but if they are to miss out on him now, they must ensure they sign someone of a similar ilk.

The Blades certainly need options out wide. Last season, Gus Hamer played on the left but is far more effective centrally, while Rhian Brewster was used on the right but has since been released.

One option for United would seem to be Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who was on loan with the Blades last season. He was wanted by Rangers, but with the latest development regarding Antman, that would surely be the end of that interest.

Crystal Palace are ready to let Rak-Sakyi leave, but there are question marks over whether he is effective enough to be part of a Sheffield United team with promotion aspirations.