Rangers are not in negotiations to sign FC Groningen striker Kevin van Veen, according to the Daily Record reporter Scott Burns.

There had been reports in the Dutch media suggesting that the Light Blues had stepped up their efforts to secure the services of the former Motherwell player but Burns says those claims are “wide of the mark”:

Lots of speculation linking Kevin van Veen with Rangers yesterday. That seems to be well wide of the mark. https://t.co/M5VVRdNxZW

— Scott Burns (@ScottBurns75) December 27, 2023

Van Veen is reportedly available on loan, with FC Groningen wanting his wages to be covered in full, as well as a significant loan fee.

The player is looking to return to the Scottish Premiership

The 32-year-old only moved back to the Netherlands last summer, having hit the back of the net 29 times in all competitions for Motherwell during the 2022/23 campaign.

However, van Veen wants to come back to Scotland to be closer to his family, so Groningen are prepared to let him go on a temporary basis in January as long as a suitable offer is received.

Why have Rangers been linked with van Veen?

Despite a dramatic improvement since the appointment of Philippe Clement as manager, the Gers still lack an out-and-out goalscorer, with summer signing Cyriel Dessers not producing the goods and Danilo spending more time on the treatment table than out on the pitch.

Considering van Veen’s situation and his excellent scoring record in Scottish football, it is logical to put two and two together. Based on Burns’ information, though, it doesn’t appear as if the Dutchman will be plying his trade at Ibrox.

Fans will still be hoping that Clement will strengthen the forward line, although it is believed the club will be working with a very strict transfer budget which may limit the options that are available.