Batista, a Burkina Faso international, still has another year left on his contract at Moreirense.

If he does not sign an extension, the club will have to sell him for even less in January, so a summer exit cannot be ruled out.

Rangers could lose Nasser Djiga along with Fernandez, making it imperative to sign new centre-backs.

This would open the door for the Light Blues to secure the services of Batista, who is open to leaving.

How can Batista fit into the Rangers system?

Standing at 6ft 2in tall, Batista is good in the air and is also composed with the ball at his feet.

He is naturally right-footed but is capable of playing passes with his weaker foot as well.

The Burkina Faso international is also known for his no-nonsense defending, making a high number of clearances per 90 minutes.

He has already established himself as a regular in the Portuguese top flight and will undoubtedly be a good fit for Scottish football.

Signing him for £2.6m would be good value for money as his valuation will only increase in the coming years.

At that stage, he will be out of reach, so it makes sense for the Gers to bring him to Ibrox.