Michael Beale has issued an update on Rangers' transfer business.

Ahead of tomorrow night's crucial Champions League qualifier against Servette, the manager has revealed that Fashion Sakala is edging closer to leaving the club.

He was absent from the weekend loss to Kilmarnock, and the Zambian has clearly played his last game for the Light Blues.

Beale said: "Fashion Sakala is very close to moving to a team in Saudi. On that one, he's a player that I was counting on. He was a boy that I had a really good relationship with; a strong, maybe even stronger than anybody else in the group.

"He's done very well for us. The strength of the relationship was probably important because the offer for him and his family I felt was a really good one. It was one where we spoke at length about. He leaves with everyone's well-wishes, he'll always be invited back. But sometimes there's football and then there's life and I think that was an offer for Fashion and his family that he should have taken and he has done that."

Asked if he will be able to reinvest the money before the window closes, Beale added: "Yeah, possibly. It's not something that's at the forefront. I think in the forward areas, we are quite healthy with numbers at the moment.

"I think Tom Lawrence is back in training and will be back available shortly. Kemar Roofe is back fit and that's two players that we didn't have last year, so we're still quite healthy in numbers."

Rangers have drafted in nine new players so far this summer, as Beale carries out major surgery on his first-team squad. 

Further business is expected, most likely in the defensive areas of the team.

Beale's comments come after Sakala himself confirmed his departure.

The 26-year-old took to social media to pay an emotional farewell to the Ibrox club.

READ MORE: Fashion Sakala delivers emotional Rangers goodbye message

He wrote: "To my beloved Rangers Football Club, teammates, management, and cherished Rangers fans. Today marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in my life.

"It is with a heavy heart, yet a spirit of gratitude, that I bid farewell to this esteemed club, the supportive management, and my fellow teammates, but most importantly, to the passionate and loyal Rangers fans.

"When I first joined Rangers, I could have never imagined the profound impact this club and its community would have on my life.

"From the very first day, you embraced me as one of your own, making me feel like I belonged here, and that sense of belonging has been the driving force behind my performances on the pitch.

"To my teammates, it has been an absolute privilege to share the field with each one of you. I am grateful for the memories we created together and the invaluable lessons I have learned from each one of you.

"To the Coaches, the entire management, and staff, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance. I am truly grateful for the opportunities you provided me during my time here.

"Last but not least, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Rangers fans. Your passion and unwavering loyalty are the heartbeat of this club. I am truly humbled by the affection you have shown me during my time here.

"Rangers fans are simply the best, and I will carry these memories of our time together, and the special song you created and sang for me, in my heart forever.

"As my journey with Rangers is coming to an end, I want to wish Rangers Football Club all the success and glory it deserves. I will always be a Ranger at heart, and I look forward to seeing the club conquer new heights in the future.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to wear the famous blue jersey and represent this iconic club. Yours faithfully, Fashion Sakala Junior."