Antonio Colak edging closer to Rangers transfer as PAOK striker misses out on pre-season clash

Rangers are edging closer to a deal for Antonio Colak after he failed to start PAOK's first pre-season friendly clash against the Go Ahead Eagles.

Sources in Greece insist the Greek side are digging their heels in over their €3million valuation of the Croatian international striker after knocking back a second Ibrox bid. But their stance could soften if they can tie-up a replacement for the 28-year-old.

Ibrox chiefs believe a deal is in sight and are confident they can get their man having lodged a unsuccessful second offer worth €2.3million, with the Greek Super League outfit promised further riches with a sell-on clause and goals bonus part of the package. Colak has emerged as Gio van Bronckhorst's No.1 target as he looks to beef up his attacking options ahead of Rangers ' new campaign.

The 28-year-old - who has been left out of PAOK’s starting line-up for tonight’s friendly clash with Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles - has been capped three times by Croatia and was the man responsible for torpedoing the Light Blues' Champions League push last season as his Ibrox double for former club Malmo dumped the then Scottish Champions out at the third qualifying stage.

But Gers have been told they will have to increase their offer for the German-born striker if they want him on board for this year's assault on the group stages. Colak was a major hit on loan in Sweden last term, blasting 19 goals for Jon Dahl Tomasson's side.

But he hasn't quite hit the same heights for PAOK are determined to retrieve the €3million they forked out when they bought him from Croatians Rijeka two years ago. However, PAOK coach Razvan Lucescu will only sanction the sale once he gets fresh back-up for his main marksman, former Norwich ace Nelson