‎Rangers ahead of Sunderland and Nottingham Forest in battle for Swansea City sensation

Rangers have become the latest club to be credited with an interest in Swansea City frontman Zan Vipotnik.

The Ibrox outfit are said to be monitoring the prolific Slovenian, who has enjoyed a superb campaign in the Championship. His 16-goal haul has fired him to the summit of the division’s scoring charts, inevitably attracting attention from clubs beyond South Wales.

According to reports from Football Fancast, Rangers have now moved to the front of the queue in the race to secure his signature. The striker has reportedly been earmarked as a potential successor to Danilo, who is expected to depart Ibrox at the end of the season.

The same report suggests that both Nottingham Forest and Sunderland are also tracking the forward. However, Rangers’ ability to potentially offer European football is said to give them the edge in the battle for his services.

Despite the speculation, sources have indicated to WalesOnline that Rangers have not made any formal approach for Vipotnik at this stage.

That said, continued strong performances are likely to intensify transfer talk. It is understood that West Ham United and several Italian sides kept tabs on the striker during the January window, though no concrete bid materialised before the deadline. Swansea’s reported £15 million valuation proved a significant obstacle for suitors.

The Swans’ firm asking price appeared to deter serious interest at the time, but the situation could shift in the summer. If Vipotnik maintains his scoring streak, that valuation may increasingly look justified rather than prohibitive.

There is also the possibility that Swansea will attempt to secure the former FC Girondins de Bordeaux man on improved terms to strengthen their negotiating position. As it stands, however, discussions over a new contract have yet to begin.

Head coach Matos has already acknowledged that growing interest in his leading scorer would be a natural consequence of sustained form, describing it as part of football’s “normal circle.” When asked about the striker’s prospects at Premier League level, he stressed that success would depend on the environment and tactical fit.

He highlighted Vipotnik’s qualities, pointing to his pressing, link-up play and ability to serve as a focal point for the team, while also insisting there is further development to come. Should he continue progressing, Matos believes the forward can evolve into a more complete number nine and in doing so, significantly shape the next stage of his career.