Thomas Galdames breaks Rangers transfer silence as Godoy Cruz chief puts Ibrox arrival timeline in doubt

Defender Thomas Galdames has directly addressed the prospect of a move to Rangers for the first time after what appears to have been his farewell appearance for Godoy Cruz.

But a club supremo has hinted that there is work to be done on a deal as he played down an imminent timeline for his Ibrox arrival. The Chilean defender has been linked with a move to Rangers after impressing in Argentina and appeared to say an emotional farewell to fans following the 4-0 cup win over El Povenier.

However, has remained tight-lipped over the prospect of a switch to the Light Blues this summer as he prepares to make his international debut for his country next week in a friendly next week against Paraguay before the Copa America tournament - where he was named in the squad. Asked directly about a move to Rangers, Galdames said: "I don't know anything about my transfer yet.

"I prefer not to say anything about it. I don't want to say anything until something is concrete because there has been a lot of speculation. The transfer market begins now, but I have to concentrate on the national team.

"If I do get a transfer, it needs to be something that will be good for my career. That's what I have been working for since the day I became a footballer. I want to play for my country and then go to the Copa America. All I can say is that Godoy Cruz have treated me very well since the day I arrived here.

"The people at the club have made me feel as if I was one of their own and that has honestly been very important to me to be able to perform, to be comfortable and happy in the club. Until something happens, I remain a Godoy Cruz player."

And while has been coy on his future, Godoy Cruz vice president Juan Mansur has been keen to play down talk of an imminent move - despite Galdames farewell to the fans. He insisted that there is still work to be done before he jets off to start a career in the Scottish Premiership.

It had been expected that the versatile star would follow Jefte and Mohamed Diomande as early summer arrivals, but speaking on the future of the star to Diario Uno Mansur said: “We plan to bring reinforcements. (But it is) not easy. It will depend a lot on who stays and who goes. We are going to bring in reinforcements thinking about the immediate and also the future.”

He went on to confirm a departure for Godoy Cruz midfielder Tomas Conechny with the star in talks over a move - but insists there was NOTHING in place for Galdames just yet, He rounded off: “We have not had specific offers for any other player."