Rangers are reportedly mulling over a move for Aberdeen midfielder Lewis Ferguson as Premier League newboys Watford launch a bid and links persist in the press.
The English club had an offer – which was considered “insulting” by Aberdeen – thrown out by the Dons this week before 21-year-old Ferguson submitted a transfer request.
Aberdeen fumed as the request was handed in and are clear that if anyone wants the midfielder, they’ll need to cough up the big bucks.
As Watford launched their bid for the talented box-to-box midfielder, Rangers were once again mentioned as an interested party by the Scottish Sun.
As the Sun down south now report that Watford have had two bids rejected and are preparing for a third, it could have some wondering if Rangers will intercept.
For some, this entire thing may have shades of Celtic’s infamously failed pursuit of then Hibs midfielder John McGinn, who has blossomed at now Premier League Aston Villa down south.
Celtic dilly-dallied over a transfer fee and the player would move to Villa in 2018 for what in hindsight was a remarkably low £2m [Telegraph].
The Scotland international midfielder has since been linked with a move to Manchester United for £50m [Scottish Sun].
There are similarities here; not only are both young Scottish midfielders but they both have historic links to Rangers and Celtic respectively.
Ferguson’s dad Derek and uncle Barry famously pulled on the blue of Rangers whilst John McGinn’s grandfather Jack is a former Celtic chairman.
At the time of the transfer discussions, both players are also considered amongst the best young Scottish talents on the market.
But for me, this is where those comparisons begin an end.
The fundamental difference between the two situations concerns Celtic’s genuine and concerted interest in the player and their havering over the transfer fee.
Whilst Rangers have been continuously linked to Ferguson over the years – by newspapers and association – there has never been any intimation of genuine interest.
If Ferguson does move to Watford, this won’t be Rangers’ John McGinn moment.
But should he flourish in the Premier League the Ibrox club may well regret not moving for the goal-scoring midfielder, nonetheless.
Whilst Ferguson is a young Scottish talent some Bears want brought into the club, there is a continuing “conversation” regarding the future of one who could leave.