RANGERS Football Club are today delighted to announce the signing of Óscar Cortés from RC Lens on a loan deal until the end of the season with an option to buy in the summer, subject to international clearance.
The 20-year-old Colombian becomes the third January addition for Philippe Clement following the arrivals of Fabio Silva and Mohamed Diomande.
Cortes progressed through the youth ranks of Colombian top-flight side Millonarios, making his first-team debut for the club only days after his 18th birthday.
Making a strong impression in the Copa Libertadores as a teenager last year, notably against Brazilian giants Atletico Mineiro, the winger caught the eye of Ligue 1 runners up RC Lens ahead of their return to the Champions League.
In the meantime, Cortes made his senior Colombia debut last June against Iraq, stepping up from the Under-20s squad where he continues to make a strong goalscoring impression.
The winger’s performances for Millonarios saw him clinch a permanent move to RC Lens last summer where, despite his young age, he has both scored and assisted in his four appearances in Ligue 1.
Speaking after signing for Rangers, Cortes commented: “I am very honoured and privileged to be signing for Rangers.
“I have heard a lot about the history and tradition of Rangers, and I have had positive conversations with the manager who said I can help the team reach their goals this season.
“I am really excited to join up with my teammates and hopefully exciting the fans with my style of play.”
Manager, Philippe Clement, continued: “I am really delighted to add Oscar to our squad.
“Our discussions have been really positive, and I believe he will be a big asset to the squad as we fight across three fronts for the remainder of this season.
“Oscar is really enthusiastic about our aims and ambitions as a team, and his skillset will provide welcome competition to our forward line.”
Director of Recruitment, Nils Koppen: “Oscar had been on our radar for a long time and was one of the best performers at the South American under-20 Championship. He quickly became an important player for Millonarios in the Copa Libertadores and made the move to Europe.
“Through good contacts, further analysis and our belief in his talent, we are pleased to seize this moment to sign him.
“With his pace, goal threat and technical level he will give us more options on the wing and working with our manager we believe we can take his development to the next level.”