Jose Cifuentes status at Rangers reassessed as Cruzeiro boss already wants star for keeps

Cruzeiro boss Nicolas Larcamon reckons Rangers flop Jose Cifuentes won't be returning to Ibrox because he's convinced he'll show why the Brazilian side will turn his loan into a permanent deal.

The Ecuadorian midfielder exited Rangers this week on loan to the Belo Horizonte club, who are owned and funded by Brazilian legend Ronaldo. His time in Glasgow was a disaster after only six league starts and he failed to live up to the hype surrounding his move from the MLS in the summer.

Cifuentes' last Scottish Premiership appearance against Dundee in December saw him receive a red card. Cruzeiro's loan deal for the player includes an option to buy and Larcamon is convinced they will activate it. He said: "The deal is complete. We have an option to purchase Jose Cifuentes at the end of his loan and I am sure that will happen. He is a very complete player and will bring significant benefits to the team.

"Jose has many qualities to his game. He is very comfortable on the ball and he will bring aggression to the team too. He will help our midfield a lot. He will be an excellent addition to the squad and we hope to have him in the team as soon as possible."

Cifuentes could make his debut for his new club this week in a derby against fellow Belo Horizonte club America MG.