Celtic may be interested in hijacking the potential deal, but do Rangers even need Jordan Jones?
The Kilmarnock winger has once again been thrown under the transfer spotlight. TEAMTalk revealed last night that Celtic are ready to rival the Ibrox side for the talented left-sided player. It would be a surprise to see Brendan Rodgers’ side go for Jones, considering they have strong cover down the left side.
However, the same could easily be said of Rangers. If the Parkhead side want to stump up for the Killie star, Steven Gerrard could easily allow it.
Jamie Murphy’s injury threw a battle for the left-wing position up for grabs. It’s looking as though Ryan Kent is going to be the one to take up that mantle. The on-loan Liverpool winger is a tricky customer, and clearly has the ability to cause Premiership sides problems this season.
Keen on Kent
Fans will be keen to see more of 21-year-old Kent in the coming weeks, as he arrived with a glowing reputation from Merseyside.
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It can be argued that should Kent pick up an injury then Rangers would have no cover. Murphy’s injury has ruled him out for the season, and therefore in principle means responsibility is wholly on Kent.
Yet that isn’t entirely true.
Outwith Kent, Rangers also have a youngster itching for game-time in Glenn Middleton.
The 18-year-old is a star in the making, and has made several cameo appearances under Gerrard so far. It’s clear the Rangers manager sees big things in the future for Middleton, who’s naturally a left-sided player. Therefore, he would be the cover should anything happen to Kent this season.
Of course, Rangers could do with more experience in there should injury or suspension curtail Kent. However, Middleton would be a more than reliable servant should he occasionally be selected.
Jones a constant threat
Going for Jones would still be a good signing for the club. Sections of the supporters have, in the past, urged Rangers to make the move for the tricky winger.
His worth was also on show just last weekend when Jones created Kilmarnock’s goal against the Gers in the Betfred Cup. Rangers ultimately went on to win in a convincing 3-1 success, but Jones was a threat once more.
Yet there’s a difference between wanting him and needing him.
If Celtic are indeed set to go in for the Kilmarnock ace, Rangers have to play it wisely. Getting involved in a bidding war with Rodgers’s side is meaningless at this stage.
It may be the case that Gerrard really wants Jones, but it appears Joe Worrall is the only target the Gers manager wants to bring in before the transfer window ends on Friday night.
Jones remains a talented player, but the simple fact is Rangers don’t need him.