Manchester United star in talks to join Scottish Premiership side on loan this summer - Reports
Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri is reportedly closing in on a loan move to Scottish giants Rangers. The Tunisian spent the second half of last season on loan at Sevilla in La Liga but failed to impress.
Africafoot reports that negotiations between United, the Gers, and Hannibal's team are at an advanced stage. Philippe Clement is prioritizing signing the Red Devils attacking midfielder this summer.
Hannibal, 21, played in the second half of Manchester United's 2-0 win against Rangers in a pre-season friendly last Saturday (July 20). He's returned to the club following an unsuccessful loan spell at Sevilla.
The Tunisia international made just six appearances in all competitions at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium. The La Liga side's manager, Quique Sanchez Flores, was unimpressed and hinted at an issue with the player's mentality.
Erik ten Hag had lauded Hannibal earlier last season when he appeared for Manchester United. The Dutch coach said he was example for his teammates:
"I think he gives a very good message to the rest of the squad, that this is the demand, this has to be the standard when you are playing in a position, what you have to bring to the team, to get success."
FC Copenhagen are also interested in signing Hannibal and are preparing a loan with an option to buy. He's not too enticed by the Danish outfit's proposal, which is welcome news for Rangers.
Hannibal debuted for Manchester United's senior team in May 2021, aged 18, under former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The French-born midfielder has since made 13 appearances and scored one goal.
Manchester United youngster Hannibal's entourage were reportedly shocked by his treatment at Sevilla
Hannibal's disappointing spell on loan at Sevilla has left many puzzled, given he was growing into a first-team regular at Manchester United. He came in as Ivan Rakitic's replacement after the veteran Croat departed for the Saudi Pro League.
Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo reported in March that Hannibal's inner circle were puzzled by Flores' constant neglect of the Tunisian. They couldn't believe the lack of first-team opportunities the Spanish coach afforded him.
Hannibal was garnering praise at United before the move, and his entourage feels his development has taken a knock amid his spell at Sevilla. They feared he'd return to Ten Hag's Red Devils in a worse condition.