Rangers have ‘an advantage’ in their pursuit of signing Besiktas midfielder Kartal Yilmaz, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s charges have already struck a deal with the Turkish giants for defender Ridvan Yilmaz, meaning a productive line of communication between the clubs has already been struck.

What is the latest news involving Yilmaz?

Turkish sources have claimed that Rangers are keen on snapping up Yilmaz and that a fee in the region of £800,000 may be enough to get a move over the line.

However, contradictory reports insist that Besiktas are willing to let the 21-year-old depart the Vodafone Park Arena this summer, but only on a temporary basis.

The SuperLig club appear determined not to lose another young prospect to the Gers and Skorer (via the Daily Record) state that they plan on opening contract talks with Yilmaz in the near future.

However, after spending time on-loan at Ümraniyespor last season, it's believed the Black Eagles would sanction another loan exit for the academy graduate.

What has O’Rourke said about Yilmaz?

After completing a £5m move for Ridvan Yilmaz, O’Rourke believes Rangers are in a strong position to wrap up deal for his namesake and former Besiktas teammate.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “I think it definitely gives them an advantage.

“They’ve obviously worked with Besiktas to a great deal for the left-back Ridvan Yilmaz, so there’s clearly good relations between the clubs to get that deal over the line.

“So, I'm sure ongoing discussions, if they are after the midfielder Yilmaz, that it would make things slightly easier for Rangers.”

Would Yilmaz be a good signing?

Yilmaz impressed in the second-tier of Turkish football throughout 2021/22, racking up eight goal contributions in 30 appearances for Ümraniyespor.

As per SofaScore, the youngster also averaged two key passes, two interceptions and 1.9 tackles per league game, highlighting his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.

Whether Yilmaz is capable of making the step up to play for Rangers, a side competing for silverware and in European competition, is up for debate, though.

Van Bronckhorst already has an array of midfielders to call upon, and it seems unlikely that Yilmaz is capable of displacing the likes of Glen Kamara, John Lundstram or Scott Arfield at this stage in his career.