Portuguese defender Tonel fancies Rangers experience

Sporting defender Tonel wants to gain experience of playing abroad by signing for Rangers.

The Portuguese stopper has heard good things about Rangers from compatriot Pedro Mendes.

"I want to experience a foreign league, but I still don't have a timescale for this," explained the 29 year old.

"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."

Sporting are believed to value the defender, who is contracted to the club until 2011, around the £2.5m mark.

Tonel's agent says there is interest in his client and has urged clubs to firm up their interest: "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."