AEK Athens' search for a striker: Cyriel Dessers still No. 1 target but fee holds up deal

AEK Athens have identified Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers as their top transfer target this summer, but a disagreement over the transfer fee is delaying progress in the deal.

AEK Athens insider Kostas Ketsetzoglou has weighed in on the ongoing speculation linking Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers with a move to the Greek giants. 

Dessers endured a difficult campaign in Scotland, facing consistent criticism over his performances at Rangers.

Despite the scrutiny, the 30-year-old managed to finish the season as the league’s top scorer, netting 18 goals in 35 league appearances.

Back in January, Dessers attracted interest from several European clubs, including Leganés, Cagliari, and Empoli.

However, he opted to stay at Rangers for the remainder of the season.

His goal-scoring form has reignited debate about his future at the Scottish club, with fresh reports now linking him strongly with a move to AEK Athens ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Commenting on the speculation, Ketsetzoglou confirmed that the Nigerian international is a top priority for AEK Athens as they look to bolster their attacking options.

"Deschers got married, he is returning to Glasgow and this will probably speed things up,” Ketsetzoglou told bwinSPORT FM 94.6 . 

"He is and remains the first target of AEK, which is not interested in another forward and really wants to acquire him.

"However, the amounts being discussed are lower than those written in Scotland."

Despite the interest, negotiations have hit a stumbling block over the transfer fee. 

With the summer transfer window gathering pace, Dessers is expected to make a decision on his future soon.

A move to Greece could offer a fresh start and regular European football, but both clubs will need to reach an agreement before the Nigerian striker can seal a switch to the Greek capital.

Adeyemi Adewale

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