In-demand Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos has reaffirmed his commitment to Ibrox whilst talking up his relationship with manager Steven Gerrard.
The Colombian striker was criticised by the Rangers boss for having his “head turned” by reported interest from Lille amid claims of a £16.25m bid [Daily Mail].
But as the Ligue 1 club’s interest reportedly cools – even if the striker is still on their president’s watchlist – the humble Morelos remains focused on making things work in Glasgow.
“I have a very beautiful relationship with Steven Gerrard. He has always supported me through thick and thin, trusting me, always protecting me from the headlines,” said Morelos [WinSportsTV].
“It’s very important to me that the manager has confidence in me.
“We are waiting to see what happens. As everyone knows, there is a rumour about me moving to France, but there is nothing concrete. If things happen in the next week or so, they will.
“I want to make it clear my head is at Rangers though.
“I made an assist in the first game and scored two goals in my second game so I have started the season well. I hope to keep scoring and keep attracting the attention of many clubs.
“Right now, my options are open, there are options for more leagues, so let’s hope that everything works out in the best way.
“There have been big teams from the big leagues enquiring about me – clubs from England, France and Spain.
“Look, everything has gone really well at Rangers. I scored 29 goals last season and did well in the Europa League.
“But no one has reached an agreement with Rangers yet and that’s the important thing. Steven Gerrard himself has said that nothing will be done unless an agreement is reached.
“When that happens, I will leave Rangers out of the front door with my head held high and no problems. But for now, all I am thinking of is Rangers.
“I’ve had three incredible seasons at Rangers. If an opportunity comes for me and agreement is reached with Rangers, then I repeat, I will leave through the front door.
“But who knows what the future will bring because a lot of things can happen in football like injuries.”
These words will be like music to the ears of Rangers firm and reassert the club’s position that the player will not eave for below his asking price, believed to be £20m.
The striker has publicly committed himself to the cause at Ibrox and to Rangers manager Steven Gerrard.
Following Lille’s signing of £27m striker Jonathan David, there have also been reports that the French side’s interest has ended in the player for now [Daily Record].
But the aforementioned Lille president appeared to rubbish these claims, even if he suggested that the interest had cooled.
“Obviously Morelos is a good player,” said Gerard Lopez [BBC World Service].
“He’s part of a list of players we’ve looked at, but we’ve made a move for another player, so we have something like 11 offensive players for four spots now.
“He’s a player who is extremely effective and at this stage, we’re watching, but nothing’s done.”
