Blackpool still in the hunt for Swansea star
Blackpool are still in the hunt for Swansea's Angel Rangel after the Swans chairman said the player's future would be resolved in the next few days.
Swansea have been fighting off the interest from Blackpool over the last few weeks and this latest revelation proves that Blackpool are still in with a chance of signing their man.
Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has made no secret of the fact that he wants to sign Rangel and Swansea have already rejected one undisclosed bid for the player. Swansea fans will be hoping that he stays on in the Championship but Blackpool still have time to make an improved bid.
Rangel has a number of qualities that would make him a very productive signing for the Premier League new boys. However, unless Blackpool meet the asking price that Swansea want for the player then it's unlikely he will be going to a new club by the end of the transfer window.
Playing qualities
Rangel is a very quick player who would give Blackpool a bit of youth and energy in up and down the right flank. Many members of the Blackpool side are in their late 20s or early 30s so it's very important Holloway can inject some youth into the side.
He is first and foremost a defender and he does this part of his game very well. Blackpool will be exposed in the wide areas by teams who have top quality wingers and a solid right back will keep Blackpool organised as a defensive unit.
He can pass and cross the ball very well and has created a high number of assists during his 120 appearances for Swansea in different leagues. This means he can be used in an attacking role when Blackpool are pressing forward.
Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said: "He's made his feelings well known about being given a chance to play in the Premier League. At this point in time we are still talking to Blackpool to see if they come somewhere near where we think they need to be on figures and we will see how that goes over the next few days."
Matter of time
The only thing that seems to be holding this deal back from happening is how far the two clubs are currently apart. Swansea will have a figure in mind that they want for the player and Blackpool will have to pay it.
Swansea will be a little annoyed that they risk losing one of their best players and they will want top dollar for him, considering the fact that Blackpool's promotion to the Premier League is valued at £90 million.
Jenkins added: "But saying that, Angel is our player, he's contracted for the next 12 months and unless they come up with the right deal to suit both parties, Angel is still our player."
Betting advice
Many pundits and high profile people in the game will say that one half-decent right back is not going to make much difference to Blackpool's chances of staying in the Premier League. They are still huge outsiders for Premier League survival and there is no reason for you to change your betting patterns based on this possible transfer.
Only back Blackpool next season when they are playing teams in a similar position to themselves. Blackpool have fantastic support and this could lead them to win a few matches against weaker teams at home next season. This is the only team you should risk your cash on them to win a Premier League game because ultimately they will struggle along through the entire season.
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