Reports linking Rangers to South African international midfielder George Maluleka have resurfaced after it was revealed the 31-year-old has rejected a new contract at current club Kaizer Chiefs.
Rangers were linked to the defensive midfielder back in December by local South African press [SunSport].
With his contract expiring at the end of the season, and with Soccer Laduma claiming Maluleka has rejected the contract offer, it’s seen the original reports resurface.
Described as a “very crucial” part of Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp’s plans, powerful midfielder Maluleka also has six caps for South Africa.
That said, he hasn’t played for the CAF side since 2012 and has never played in European football in a 14 year South African footballing career.
It is incredibly difficult to see how Maluleka would be the answer to Rangers’ woes, other than the style of player he is.
Rangers are desperately lacking bite in the middle of the park and the assumption would be that Maluleka fills the Coulibaly destroyer role Gerrard discussed last season.
But given the player’s age, it’s difficult to see how Rangers could view the player as a long-term solution to their issues.
Considering Maluleka has also never played in Europe, the Ibrox side could well be being used by football agents to promote the availability of their client.
Would the club’s support be happy if this is the kind of player we’re moving for ahead of next season?
