Rangers are said to be on the brink of an agreement to sign Jack Butland – however, if the deal collapses, an ideal alternative is now available in Timo Horn.
It was The Scottish Sun who claimed that Rangers are close to signing the England international.
That move would appear to be quite a straightforward one to complete as Butland becomes a free agent in July when his contract with Crystal Palace expires.
Nevertheless, a new name has emerged in Horn as Michael Beale looks to replace Allan McGregor.
Rangers should consider Timo Horn
Well, Horn has spent his entire career with FC Köln in Germany.
However, the Bundesliga outfit announced earlier on Thursday that the 29-year-old would be leaving after 21 years of service when his contract ends in July.
Horn has racked up 329 appearances for FC Köln’s first-team since his breakthrough in 2012, keeping 91 clean sheets while conceding 449 goals.
In total – across all age groups for FC Köln – the German has made 409 appearances with 115 clean sheets and 543 goals conceded.
Of course, Butland arguably represents the more sensible option given his experience in British football, which means he is more likely to settle easier in Glasgow than someone who has never played outside of Germany.
However, Horn is a respected goalkeeper across Europe who also boasts Europa League experience.
Therefore, if anything goes wrong in Beale’s pursuit of Butland, it would definitely be worth getting in touch with Horn – especially as Rangers can offer him the chance to play Champions League football for the first time in his career.
Angus Gunn is another option for Rangers.
In that instance – however – Norwich are said to want a £10m fee, so Butland and Horn represent far more attractive options given the fact they would arrive for free.
Be sure to keep an eye on Rangers this summer, as Beale attempts to replace a club legend in McGregor.
