Rangers have reportedly had an opening bid for Vaclav Cerny rejected, with Besiktas making it clear they are not prepared to sell the winger for their current valuation.
The Ibrox club are keen to bring the Czech international back to Glasgow following his successful loan spell, but negotiations are already proving difficult.
An offer worth around €6 million is understood to have been turned down by the Turkish side, who paid a similar fee to sign Cerny from Wolfsburg last year and have no intention of accepting a loss on the 28-year-old.
Besiktas unwilling to lower their demands
Despite speculation over Cerny's long-term role in Istanbul, Besiktas remain reluctant to sanction a sale.
Head coach Vincenzo Italiano is believed to have informed the club's hierarchy that he wants to keep the winger, whose contract runs until 2028, with the option of a further year.
Although reports in Turkey have suggested Cerny could face increased competition if Besiktas strengthen their attacking options this summer, the club are not under pressure to sell and are expected to hold out for an improved offer.
That leaves Rangers with a decision to make over whether to increase their bid or pursue alternative targets.
Why Rangers want Cerny back
Cerny established himself as one of Rangers' standout performers during his loan spell at Ibrox.
The winger scored 18 goals and registered nine assists across all competitions, becoming a key player in the final third with his direct running, creativity and eye for goal.
In the Scottish Premiership alone, he contributed 12 goals and four assists while consistently creating chances and providing a threat from the right flank.
His understanding of Scottish football and ability to adapt immediately make him an attractive option for Derek McInnes as Rangers continue their squad rebuild.
Rangers must avoid overpaying
While Cerny's quality is not in doubt, Rangers will need to carefully consider how far they are willing to go financially.
The club's recent recruitment strategy has focused on signing younger players with long-term potential and strong resale value, making a significant investment in a 28-year-old a more difficult calculation.
Although Cerny enjoyed a productive campaign in Turkey after leaving Rangers, his performances are unlikely to justify entering a prolonged bidding war if Besiktas continue to increase their demands.
A revised offer structured around achievable performance-related bonuses could provide a compromise between the two clubs.
However, if Besiktas continue to hold firm, Rangers may decide their resources are better spent elsewhere.
With the transfer window still open and several attacking options expected to become available, McInnes and the recruitment team will be determined to avoid paying above market value simply because Cerny is a familiar face.
The coming days could prove crucial in determining whether Rangers can secure a reunion with one of last season's most influential players or whether they are forced to move on to alternative targets.