Rangers should look to sell Croatia international Borna Barisic in this summer transfer window, with now the perfect time for both sides to part ways.
The 30-year-old has been a long-serving player at Ibrox, making 201 appearances since his arrival in 2018, but with his performances declining, and just one year left on his contract, a sale now could be the best move for Michael Beale.
Barisic is a good crosser of the ball, but his defending leaves a lot to be desired, having made a number of errors that have been described as “really poor” in recent seasons, and is now becoming a liability at the back at times.
Given his status as a 31-cap Croatia international, who appeared in the World Cup in Qatar, he could attract a transfer fee if offered out, and after losing the likes of Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent for free this summer, Rangers may aim to be more proactive with their sales going forward.
Rangers’ left-back options
If Barisic were to leave, Rangers might have to consider options in the market, but there are internal solutions.
Ridvan Yilmaz arrived last year from Besiktas for a notable fee of around £5m, but he has hardly been given a chance to prove himself, making just 15 appearances in all competitions so far.
The 22-year-old could be given a run of games to see whether he can be a viable option to replace Barisic, and he could still be a long-term squad option if another player arrives.
Summer arrival Dujon Sterling could also provide cover at left-back, having played the position a fair amount in Chelsea’s academy teams.
If a bid arrives for Barisic, it would provide the perfect opportunity for Rangers to cash in on a declining player, and given that there have been links to Nottingham Forest, this could be another chance for Beale make a ruthless decision on the squad and show that there is no room for underperformers in the team going forward.
