With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Rangers FC fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of new players to strengthen their title-winning squad. Steven Gerrard’s men dominated the Scottish Premiership last season with a staggering 102 points and will be looking to build upon their success. Here are some players they should target:
Centre-Back
Despite their excellent defensive record last season, Rangers have been linked with several centre-backs. Their current crop of defenders have been impressive, but Gerrard knows he needs to add depth to his backline to cope with the demands of challenging for multiple competitions. One player who has been linked with the club is Jack Hendry of Oostende. The Scottish centre-back joined Oostende in January and impressed with his performances in the Belgian Pro League, helping his side finish fifth. Hendry has already earned two caps for Scotland and could be a solid addition to the Rangers’ squad.
Another potential target for Rangers is Rasmus Kristensen of FC Midtjylland. The Danish centre-back has been a key player for the Danish outfit in recent years and possesses the physicality and speed to deal with the pace and power of the Scottish Premiership. Standing at 6’2″, Kristensen is a commanding presence in both boxes and could be an excellent signing for Rangers.
Midfield
Rangers’ midfield last season was led by the likes of Steven Davis, Ryan Jack, and Glen Kamara. However, the addition of a creative midfielder could give them an extra edge in the final third. Andreas Skov Olsen of FC Bologna is a player who could provide that spark. The 21-year-old Danish midfielder scored six goals and provided four assists in Serie A last season and impressed with his dribbling ability and vision. Although primarily a left-winger, Skov Olsen can also play as an attacking midfielder and could be an excellent signing for Rangers.
An alternative option for Rangers is Kostas Fortounis of Olympiakos. The Greek midfielder is a talented playmaker capable of unlocking defences with his passing ability. Fortounis has been a key player for Olympiakos in recent years, winning three Super League Greece titles and scoring 46 goals in 195 appearances. At 28, he has plenty of experience at the highest level and could be a valuable asset to Steven Gerrard’s side.
Striker
The departure of Alfredo Morelos is looking increasingly likely, with the Colombian striker being linked with a move away from Rangers this summer. Therefore, it is essential that Gerrard brings in a quality replacement to fill the void left by Morelos. One player who has been linked with the club is Chidera Ejuke of CSKA Moscow. The Nigerian striker is known for his explosive pace and dribbling ability and has scored nine goals and provided four assists in the Russian Premier League this season. Ejuke could fit perfectly into Gerrard’s system, providing a direct threat in behind the opposition’s defence.
An alternative option for Rangers is a player who is familiar with Scottish football – Lawrence Shankland of Dundee United. Shankland was the top scorer in the Scottish Championship two seasons ago, scoring 24 goals in 26 appearances for Ayr United. He then made the step up to the Scottish Premiership with Dundee United and has scored 16 goals in 36 appearances. At 25, Shankland still has his best years ahead of him and could be an excellent signing for Rangers if they are looking for a more home-grown option.
Conclusion
Overall, Rangers’ squad is already strong, but adding quality depth is essential if they want to challenge for multiple trophies next season. The players mentioned above could be excellent additions to Steven Gerrard’s squad, but much will depend on their availability and financial constraints. It is also worth noting that Rangers have been heavily linked with a move for Nnamdi Ofoborh of Bournemouth, while Kyle Joseph of Wigan Athletic is another potential target. Regardless of who they sign, one thing is for sure – Rangers will be looking to build upon their success and compete on all fronts next season.