Rangers and Giovanni van Bronckhorst are reportedly not pursuing a deal for Norwegian striker Erik Botheim, despite the recent speculation regarding a possible move to Ibrox for the 22-year-old.

What's the word?

As per BBC journalist Fraser Fletcher, the Rangers are not believed to be interested in signing the Oslo-born gem this summer, amid reports that they were set to make an offer for the former Bodo/Glimt marksman.

Writing on Twitter, the insider stated: "I have new information that makes it clear that there is nothing in the Erik Botheim to Rangers rumours."

The player is set to be available for free in the current window after terminating his contract with Russian outfit Krasnador due to the nation's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, having only joined the club in the winter.

Supporters will hate it

That latest update will no doubt leave supporters fuming, particularly having seen a deal teased in recent days, with the Gers seemingly set to miss out on the chance to sign such a promising free agent who would have helped bolster the squad.

Manager van Bronckhorst is seemingly in need of new forward additions this summer having seen Cedric Itten join Swiss side BSC Young Boys on a permanent deal, while Colombian talisman Alfredo Morelos is also facing an uncertain future with just 12 months remaining on his current deal.

Adding Botheim would undoubtedly have helped to ease those fears, with the £3.6m-rated ace having proven himself a prolific presence in front of goal in recent times, notably netting 22 goals and providing ten assists in just 46 games for Bodo/Glimt last year.

That tally included four goals and four assists in just six games in last season's Europa Conference League, the youngster notably providing five goal contributions in the devastating 6-1 win over eventual champions AS Roma in October.

That form unsurprisingly saw the 5 foot 11 monster record a remarkable 7.57 average match rating in the competition, as per SofaScore, with the "complete forward" - as he has been dubbed by scout Jacek Kulig - clearly a promising and exciting prospect.

While his lack of game time in 2022 would have been a concern to those at Ibrox - having seen his contract initially suspended back in March - the evidence would suggest that the club are set to make a huge mistake if they opt against pursuing a deal.

Supporters may not forgive the Rangers hierarchy if an adequate alternative is not found prior to the start of next season.

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