Tonel open to SPL switch

Tonel: Keen on Gers

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Sporting defender Tonel is hoping to seal a summer move to Rangers in a bid to experience life in a foreign league.

The Portuguese stopper, who has won one cap for his country, has spent his entire career in his homeland.

However, the 29-year-old is seeking a new challenge and has heard good things about Rangers from compatriot Pedro Mendes.

Tonel sees the SPL as an attractive league and would relish the challenge of playing UEFA Champions League football at Ibrox.

New challenge

"I want to experience a foreign league, but I still don't have a timescale for this," explained Tonel.

"In the winter transfer window there were not many opportunities, but now there might be chances.

"My agent is working on some deals and I'd prefer to play in Scotland, which is an attractive league where Rangers are in the Champions League.

"Also my friend Pedro Mendes has told me good things about the club, which is also important."

Valuation

Sporting are believed to value the defender, who is contracted to the club until 2011, around the €3million (£2.5m) mark, but may be prepared to accept nearer €2m (£1.7m).

Tonel's agent Marcel Cipriano has urged clubs to firm up their interest, saying: "We have some options, but clubs have not contacted Sporting to reach an agreement.

"This is key because the player still has a contract until 2011. I can clarify that I've not spoken with Rangers' directors."