THE name might not be instantly recognisable to Rangers fans, but Kevin Ciubotaru reportedly attracted interest from some of Europe’s elite clubs before making a deadline day move to Ibrox.

The late arrivals of Manchester United's Amad Diallo and Wales international Aaron Ramsey on loan deals stole the headlines on January 31.

But the left-back could prove to be a hidden gem as he seeks to breakthrough into Giovanni van Bronckhurst’s first team.

Here we answer all the key questions about Ciubotaru...

Who is Kevin Ciubotaru?

Born in Rome in 2004, the youngster has represented Romania at youth level.

After an unsuccessful trial at Chelsea in 2019 he admitted it was a step he was not yet ready for and he went on to spend time with the Kinetic Academy in England.

Kinetic played a role in honing Joe Aribo’s skills as a youngster before being picked up by Charlton Athletic.

Ciubotaru continued pursuing professional trials and was offered a deal by Barnet - but the deal apparently did not include accommodation and meals and so he turned it down.

A report from Romania also suggests he was set to sign for Tottenham in 2020, but work permit issues halted the transfer.

His Gers chance came from Rangers' initial interest in one of his Kinetic team-mates, but Ciubotaru reportedly stood out and was later offered a deal.

What style of player is he?

Ciubotaru said he bases his game on in form AC Milan full-back Theo Hernandez.

He said: "I think my qualities are speed, dribbling and stamina. I style myself like Theo Hernandez from Milan, although I have a lot of work to do with my right foot. I still have a lot to learn of course."

He went on to say that the past few years of trials have helped galvanise him and create a strong mentality.

He said: "All the attempts of the last two years have strengthened me fantastically for this moment of truth. I went before as a robot, mentally focused just to show the best football I'm capable of. I have no more emotions."

What has he said about Rangers

Ciubotaru confessed that he was shocked when Rangers gave him the opportunity, and he flew into Glasgow immediately.

The Telegraph broke the news that the club were then set to sign the teenager on a two-year deal.

And Ciubotaru won’t be content as a backup as he targets a place in Giovanni van Bronckhorst 's first-team as early as next season.

He told playsport.ro: "I was just shocked. I couldn't believe it. They sent me a plane ticket, I flew to Glasgow, where I met an extraordinary club, with a superb training base, impeccable conditions and a special attention dedicated to my own development.

"I just want to make the most of this incredible opportunity in my career.”

One man the full-back spoke positively of was fellow countryman Ianis Hagi.

He said: "I met Ianis Hagi and we spoke a little. He's a very humble man, I can't wait to train and play with him in the first team next season hopefully.

"I'm sorry he got hurt pretty badly, I understand he'll need a few good months to recover."