As reported by ESPN, Rangers midfielder Carlos Pena is close to an Ibrox exit back to Mexico, potentially joining up with former Light Blues boss Pedro Caixinha.

What’s the story?

Pena was one of Caixinha’s marquee summer signings at the Light Blues, but he’s had a frustrating first half of the season, initially severely lacking match fitness and then struggling to become a first team regular. The Mexican has made just six starts in the Scottish Premiership.

It now appears he’ll be heading back to his homeland to join up with Cruz Azul, who ply their trade in the Mexican top flight.

ESPN report that he is ‘very close’ to completing the move, with talks between Rangers and the buying club at an advanced stage after new Cruz Azul boss requested his signature.

However, there is a potential snag with Rangers looking to sell him for around £2.2m and the Mexicans seeking a loan deal, according to the outlet.

Room to manoeuvre

While selling him is clearly the ideal option for Rangers, even if he leaves on a loan it will provide the club with crucial extra resources in the January transfer window.

The wages freed up by a return to his homeland would give Graeme Murty room to seek either a midfield replacement or perhaps a more creative attacking player, something which the Light Blues badly need.

If he leaves permanently, it could be the difference between signing a quality player and not.

It’s been clear for a while now that Pena was not going to cut it at Ibrox and saying goodbye to him this month is the correct way forward. The only question now appears to be how well Rangers chiefs can negotiate his exit.