The latest reports of Liverpool rejecting Dominic Solanke bids must now put to be his availability in January.
Rangers were one of five clubs to have had offers turned down for the England youngster. Solanke has been capped by England, and is clearly seen as a real up-and-coming talent by Liverpool.
Steven Gerrard may decide to head back into the transfer market in the new year in search for a fourth striker. Should the Rangers manager go with two up top, he’ll be wanting someone in reserve for each place. As of now, he only has three forwards in Kyle Lafferty, Alfredo Morelos, and Umar Sadiq.
Solanke would surely have been one of the first names on the list. Now, however, that must be put to bed after the latest reports.
Liverpool quite evidently don’t want to let him go. Despite the fact he’s still nowhere near the first-team at Anfield, Gerrard would surely be wasting his time going back in with a bid.
It can be argued strongly that Rangers need that fourth front-man, and Solanke would certainly fit the ball. His pace and power would surely thrive in the Premiership up here.
But if Liverpool aren’t willing to play ball, there’s no point giving them it in the first place.
Bent’s Gers desire
Meanwhile, the likes of Darren Bent has confirmed his total commitment to joining Rangers if offered. The forward is another England international, and has real pedigree at the top level down south.
Bent would be available on a free transfer, where as you have to imagine Solanke’s wages would be fairly hefty.
Also, come January, it isn’t ideal to have someone in for six months before heading back down the road. Solanke would need time to get used to Rangers’ style of play and adapt to the league.
Jason Cummings arrived for a short loan spell last season, and barely made any sort of impression. The likes of Sean Goss did likewise. Granted, Solanke is a cut above both players, but he still doesn’t have much experience of top-team football.
Going for him in January would be difficult, and even if Rangers did get him, there’s no guarantee he would fit in right away. Alternatively, signing up Bent would give him the luxury of settling in whilst knowing he would be here for the long-term.
Solanke’s a talent, but not one that Rangers should bother bending over backwards to get for a few months.
