Peterborough United director of football Barry Fry believes Rangers FC could command a transfer fee of at least £30 million (approximately N56 billion in Nigerian currency) for defender Emmanuel Fernandez following his impressive start to life at Ibrox.

Fernandez joined Rangers from Peterborough United during the summer transfer window in a deal reportedly worth around £3 million.

Despite arriving in Scotland with little fanfare, the young centre-back has quickly established himself as a key figure for the club, winning over supporters with his solid defensive displays, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball.

Fernandez has also contributed offensively, scoring five goals in 19 league appearances to underline his growing influence in the team.

Speaking to The Scottish Sun, Fry revealed that he always believed the defender had the potential to thrive at Rangers and eventually attract a significant transfer fee. 

“When we sold Manny to Rangers, the fans up there had a right go at me, saying he was the worst player they had signed. I just knew Fernandez had to be given a chance,” Fry said. 

“I made it clear Rangers would eventually sell him for £30m or even £40m. I said he’d score goals as well and just come through strong for them.”

The Peterborough chief admitted the early criticism from supporters was intense, especially when Fernandez struggled to break into the starting lineup during his initial weeks at the club.

“Honestly, he just had to be given an opportunity. Early on, they didn’t give him one. He only got one or two games and I wasn’t popular up there with Rangers fans,” he added.

“Just look at Manny now. He has shown the Rangers fans he can defend and he can score goals.

“He’s a good player, it’s as simple as that. But I definitely don’t want to be saying, ‘Told you so’ to the supporters.”

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Fernandez has pledged his international future to Nigeria and he's hoping to receive his maiden Super Eagles call-up for the proposed friendly against Jordan later this month. 

Adeyemi Adewale