Charlton manager Lee Bowyer has expressed his intention to hold talks with Rangers linked Lyle Taylor next week, as quoted by London News Online.
In December, Sky Sports reported that the Gers were one of several clubs looking to land the striker – whose current contract expires in the summer – on the cheap.
Since then, speculation has abounded with the player rejecting a new deal which was subsequently retracted by The Addicks [London News Online].
However, it seems as though the London club are still very keen to hold onto him, having allegedly knocked back a recent bid from Bristol City [Daily Mail], with Bowyer primed to launch a fresh charm offensive.
“After that [a few days off] I’ll chat to Lyle and see where his head is at,” said Bowyer, as quoted by London News Online. “I’ll speak to his agent and see where his head is at.”
“But Lyle loves it here – you can see. If Lyle didn’t love it here, you see what he did just there when he came on [against Fulham]. Every time he gives 100 per cent.
“Whether Lyle Taylor signs a new contract or not, I guarantee you he’ll give 100 per cent every time he is on that pitch.
“I hope he signs. I hope he stays – because for me he is a very, very good striker.”
Verdict
As time ticks on in this transfer window, many Rangers fans are getting twitchy about the lack of activity, particularly in terms of strengthening at the top end of the pitch.
Taylor is a player the club has been linked with for some time, but over a month after the first link was made, there’s still a lack of clarity over his future.
He’s continued to be used by Bowyer throughout the period of speculation and has a strong record of seven goals in 14 Championship appearances so far this season.
Athletically built and standing at 6ft 2″, he would offer a point of difference off the bench for the Gers, but time is running out for Gerrard and co. to make a swoop.
There’s set to be no back-up striker for Sunday’s trip to Tynecastle, with Jermain Defoe leading the line in the suspended Alfredo Morelos’ absence.
