Emmanuel Fernandez to Arsenal transfer addressed with Rangers exit 'out of Derek McInnes control'

Emmanuel Fernandez's potential exit from Rangers has been characterized as beyond the control of manager Derek McInnes amid escalating speculation over a move to Arsenal.

The centre-back arrived at Ibrox last summer from Peterborough in a deal worth around 3.5m as part of a major recruitment drive. After a slow start to life in Glasgow, the 24-year-old went on to enjoy an impressive campaign at the heart of Rangers' backline.

His performances have caught the attention of several elite European clubs, with Stade Rennes, Feyenoord, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund among those tracking the defender. Premier League champions Arsenal have also reportedly tracked the centre-back.

Former Arsenal great Alan Smith weighed in on Fernandez's potential readiness for a step up to the Emirates. "Maybe they've had a good look at him the analytics and all the rest of it seen his figures," Smith stated to Record Sport. Discussing Fernandez's career path, Smith added: "He's had a really topsy-turvy career He's been all over the place non-league hasn't he And it's only in the last year or so that he's come into what you would call well obviously a very big football club."

Smith concluded: "He's 24 now So after that checkered start to his football career maybe he's ready but a heck of a step up to go to a club like Arsenal."

Fernandez is not the only Rangers player attracting attention this summer, with Connor Barron, John Souttar and Danilo all expected to leave the club.

Former Rangers hero Charlie Miller suggested that substantial financial offers will take decisions out of McInnes' hands. "Boys will leave There is interest in four or five of the lads and a few will be moved on One or two could go for really big money," Miller told Record Sport. He added: "Derek can't control that kind of thing but he is in charge of what happens on the field and he will be hard but fair on the squad."