Rangers boss Michael Beale has claimed that the Ibrox side remain in the hunt for a centre-back as the club close in on a deal for Nicolas Raskin.
The Gers are said to be close to a switch for the Standard Liege midfielder despite the Ibrox gaffer pouring cold water on claims that the deal was already done.
But whilst that transfer does appear to be edging closer, the Rangers manager has also confirmed that it might not be the end of the club’s business as the Gers target a centre-back.
Rangers are feeling the benefit of a more settled defence with the returning Connor Goldson and Ben Davies but this season has been marred by serious defensive injury problems.
Both Goldson and Davies have spent time on the sidelines, whilst John Souttar and Filip Helander are yet to return from lengthy lay-offs which have effectively ruled them out for the season to date.
The issues at centre-back have had a direct impact on the club’s form this season, with a lack of defensive options hurting the club in the Champions League and in the Scottish Premiership.
Michael Beale on Rangers centre-back hunt
Keen to avoid a repeat of the situation, Michael Beale has revealed that the club remain interested in a centre-back this January but that he may need to wait until the summer for reinforcements.
“I think we need to [add at centre-back] moving forward just because there’s a little bit of uncertainty around the centre-half position,” said Michael Beale [Rangers].
”When Connor and Ben weren’t fit we were having to play midfielders there or Leon and Leon has had a fantastic first half of the season but that was a lot of pressure thrown on his young shoulders.
”So I think moving forward I just want some certainty in that position and if we were to get an injury i still want certainty because I think you build a team from the back forward.
”There’s one or two really interesting things [this January]. They become much more clearer in the summer if I’m honest but if we can pull something through we will try to.”
All this suggests Rangers are not done yet as they look to reinforce their squad with Michael Beale and Ross Wilson still on the hunt for first-team players.
Millwall defender Jake Cooper certainly poses an interesting option.
