An “internal issue” kept Jefte out of the APOEL squad on Friday night amid speculation linking the Brazilian left-back with a move to Rangers.
Nektarios Petevinos, head of communication for APOEL, was compelled to provide an explanation for the 20-year-old’s absence as the Nicosia club defeated Nea Salamis 4-0 on the road in the Cypriot First Division.
On January 27, Fabrizio Romano announced via X that Rangers and Fluminense have completed a deal for Jefte, who is currently on loan at APOEL, to be signed.
It was stated that the agreement was reached, and that APOEL only needed to approve the loan termination for Jefte.
Petevinos indicated that the left-back’s absence on Friday was not due to a fitness issue, but he did not confirm that any transfers were taking place.
Petevinos stated on Friday (January 27) that “with Jefte there is an internal issue that the team is handling, when there is something we will inform you,” as reported by APOEL Group.
“There is currently a discussion regarding [Kingsley] Sarfo, but I am unable to officially report anything at this time. Please be patient, and we will update you within the next 24 to 48 hours.”
As good a sign as any
Jefte was most likely missing because he’s finished as an APOEL player.
The Nicosia club have a game on Tuesday (30 January) against Karmiotissa, meaning that Jefte could still play again for them if he doesn’t have his loan terminated until the last 48 hours of the transfer window.
But all the signs suggest that this is a deal that’s going to go through for Rangers.
🔵🇧🇷 EXCL: Rangers have reached an agreement with Fluminense to sign 2003 born Brazilian left back Jefté.
Deal in place, waiting for APOEL to give the green light as he’s on loan in Cyprus.
Jefté also agreed on terms with Rangers, contract valid until June 2027. pic.twitter.com/BJkrMcFMBc
Romano reports that Jefte’s personal terms have been agreed with by Fluminense, the academy product that has produced Marcelo, Thiago Silva, Fabinho, Joao Pedro, and Luiz Henrique in recent years. Jefte appears to be keen on moving to Ibrox.
Prior to Romano’s Friday post, APOEL Group revealed that the Light Blues had extended an offer to APOEL, presumably in exchange for them ending the 20-year-old’s loan.
This deal might be completed in a few days if the offer is strong enough, and Jefte won’t have to miss out on another matchday squad in Cyprus.
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