The news that Rangers are reportedly one of several clubs in negotiations with Italy and Juventus legend Claudio Marchisio might have turned the heads of some fans.
But should Rangers be serious about their pursuit of the player, any move comes with serious red flags.
At 33, Marchisio may well have something still to offer, but his most recent move to Zenit St. Petersburg suggests otherwise.
After leaving Juventus in 2018 – a club with whom Marchisio spent 12 years, played over 380 times and won 14 trophies – the 55-times capped Italian midfielder moved to Russia.
Marchisio had originally signed a two-year deal with the Russian club but cut the deal short by mutual termination back in July.
This suggests the player was either not the right for Zenit, or not of the quality required to make an impact.
Whilst the Russian league is a step up from that of Scotland’s domestic competition, why would Rangers take a considerable risk on a player who struggled in the East?
Claudio Marchisio is also reportedly interesting the likes of Monaco – with whom Marchisio reportedly has an agreement with – but Rangers are said to remain interested [RMC Sport].
That would suggest that Rangers will need to cough up considerable wages to bring the Italian playmaker to Glasgow.
Do we really need to splash out to sign him given the number of players we already have in the position?
Marchisio’s signature would surely spell the end for a range of fringe players, including the likes of Greg Docherty.
His exorbitant wages would also mean a starting berth over the likes of Steven Davis, Joe Aribo, Glen Kamara, Ryan Jack and Andy King.
The one thing that would perhaps justify any approach for Marchisio is the fact the player brings undoubted quality and experience.
But is splashing out on the midfielder the right move for Rangers right now?
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