Croatian sport media outlet Index have reported that Rangers are on the verge of signing NK Osijek’s Eros Grezda. He would join former captain Borna Barisic at the club.
Most fans won’t have heard of the goalscoring right winger before today. Even when we played Osijek the Albanian International was out injured. With an injury issue of their own, Rangers now need to plug the gap left by the season-long injury to Jamie Murphy.
The reported fee of £2.7m seems hefty for someone we’ve never really heard of. But if the reports are true, what will the 23-year old-bring to the club?
Goals from out wide
Grezda’s main attraction for transfer may come from his goals from out wide. Besides from Jamie Murphy none of the Rangers widemen have shown themselves capable of adding them from this position.
Grezda scored 14 goals in 59 league appearances for Lokomotiva Zagreb before moving to Osijek. He’s scored 5 in 26 since he’s been there.
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Blistering pace
Grezda offers blistering pace and a directness Rangers are currently lacking out wide. Not only is the Albanian comfortable driving the byline, he’s a tricky, skilful player who will come inside and shoot. He is real handful in the final third and offers goals, assists, and his style suits a rapid counter. That suits Rangers’ system.
International experience
Gerrard and Rangers have spoke about adding real quality to the dressing room. In the 12 signings they’ve made, they’ve added a mix of internationalists who’ve played at a variety of levels. This is a clear step up, and Eros Grezda would offer the same. Grezda has played six games for Albania, scoring one goal. At 23, he has plenty of time to add more.