Lazar Markovic might sound like a name that’s been around for a long time, but the Serbian winger is still only 25.
Signed for a whopping £20m by Liverpool from Benfica back in 2014, Markovic hasn’t really lived up to the billing over the last five years. Starting his career at Partizan Belgrade, he quickly outgrew his surroundings in Serbia. The winger would then go on to be a key part of Benfica’s treble-winning side of 2013/14.
But since his Liverpool move the player has never really settled. As a result, he’s been shifted around the continent on loan. Now at Fulham full-time, his contract expires in the summer [Transfermarkt].
Rangers manager Steven Gerrard spoke honestly about the need to add a little bit of magic to an often-feckless Rangers forward line. Lazar Markovic has gone off the boil but had a reputation as a mazy, powerful winger when he first broke through at Partizan. Could he provide it?
Markovic’s career needs new life and direction
Despite a relatively successful first season at Anfield his loan spells with Fenerbahce, Sporting Lisbon, Hull City and Anderlecht couldn’t see him recapture his form. He’s made only one appearance for Fulham all season.
So far, any potential signing of Markovic brings up plenty of red flags. The player’s commitment and fitness have also been brought into question.
But these clubs are taking a punt on Markovic because there’s obviously a player there. His 22 caps for Serbia are a testament to that. What’s more, Steven Gerrard is also a former teammate of the Serbian’s. That means he’s in a strong place to make a judgement call on him.
If Rangers could get Markovic fit – which Gerrard so clearly demands of all his players – there’s real potential in approaching the player. But going on this evidence, that’s a big if.
Yet, you never know. It could be the chance for Lazar Markovic to relaunch his once-promising career at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Could any move for Serbian international Lazar Markovic be supplemented by signing this talented Dutch midfielder too?
