Rangers’ transfer window has been a very successful exercise for Steven Gerrard so far.
The fans have taken to the new signings, and it seems the new signings have taken to the fans. Now, it’s about closing that revolving door and getting a settled squad which Gerrard can take forward with him into this season and beyond.
The Scouser is still sniffing about the transfer market, so we’ve identified three key areas where he’s looking to improve.
Mobile, powerful, left-footed Centre Back
When Nikola Katic stayed down for a few minutes after a clash in his own penalty box against St. Mirren, you could hear a pin drop. When he got back up, there was a collective sigh of relief. Both Goldson and Katic have been superb, but Rangers need quality backups of similar standards. Rangers’ transfer window has been blighted by losing out on targets in this position, but the thought of experienced Dutch international and left-footed centre/full back Erik Pieters joining is very interesting indeed.
Lock-picking, creative, direct Midfield Playmaker
Rangers don’t generally play with one off the striker. They prefer instead to have someone hunkered in front of defence. However, the need for a creative playmaker type is evident. Ejaria has been impressive, if a little wasteful at times, and Graham Dorrans has been struggling with injury and looks out of the picture. The thought of signing a top-end creative force is very appealing, but it is not a priority. Expect it in January unless the right player becomes available.
Experienced, goal-scoring Striker
It’s no surprise who’s top of the wish list here. As Rangers have another bid knocked back for the Northern Irish hero, it seems increasingly likely both clubs will eventually come to an agreement after Hearts named their price. The Ulsterman wants the move, and if recent performances against our biggest rivals are anything to go by, he’d be a top, top signing for Rangers. We’ve also been linked with Bosnian duo Armin Hodzic, Elvir Koljc and Dominic Solanke, but it looks very much like Lafferty will be Gerrard’s man.