Nigeria Players Abroad
Cyriel Dessers opens up on transfer rumors, confirms rejected AEK Athens offer
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers has addressed the swirling transfer speculation around his future, confirming that the club turned down an offer from Greek champions AEK Athens this summer.
Despite finishing last season as the Gers’ top scorer, the Nigerian international endured criticism from sections of the fanbase, with some calling for his sale.
The arrival of manager Russell Martin, however, has been a turning point, with the new boss reportedly a strong admirer of Dessers’ work rate and goalscoring instincts.
Speaking ahead of Rangers’ UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge, Dessers also revealed that the Belgian side had previously attempted to sign him on more than one occasion.
“Once when (Ivan) Leko was manager there, and the last time when I was playing for Cremonese, but that interest never materialised,” he explained.
When asked about the prospect of a return to Belgium, the 29-year-old kept the door open while stressing that no move was imminent.
“Why not? It’s still too early anyway, but I’ve been living abroad for quite a while and I recently bought a house in Mechelen,” he said.
“There are a few Belgian teams I’m particularly fond of — KV Mechelen is a fantastic club. For the rest, I try to leave as many doors open as possible. You never know what a career will bring.”
Dessers acknowledged that Club Brugge enter tonight’s tie as favorites, but insisted Rangers are prepared to fight for an upset.
“We know they are strong, but we are ready. Confidence is important, and we believe we can surprise people,” he added.
