In the autumn of 2020, Rangers looked odds on to sign Daniel Johnson from Preston, now, there might be another opportunity to finally seal the deal.
As a player capable of operating in almost any of Rangers midfield or attacking midfield positions, the 30-year old playmaker looks likely to be leaving Deepdale with over 300 appearances to his name.
Rangers were reportedly willing to pay £2m for Daniel Johnson to acquire his services before the extended transfer window closed but had accepted that a pre-contact agreement might be more achievable.
To everyone’s surprise though, Johnson added a couple of years to his Preston contract instead, where he has remained ever since.
Daniel Johnson to Rangers might depend on possible exits
Johnson is a good player, however, Michael Beale now has Todd Cantwell, Ianis Hagi, Alex Lowry and Tom Lawrence capable of playing a similar role.
There is also Rabbi Matondo, Scott Wright and Fashion Sakala who can play off the wings with Ryan Kent now expected to leave.
If Rangers did have an interest in returning for Johnson, there would have to be a departure or two.
If fees could be brought in for Sakala and Wright with Johnson coming in the opposite direction then it would represent a decent bit of business.
His age is a factor but previous references hailing Johnson as “phenomenal” and “unbelievable” are encouraging.
The Gers gaffer needs an improvement across his squad in terms of technical ability.
Players like Wright and Sakala have their moments but on too many occasions they fluff their lines.
Quality and consistency must be key factors when recruiting this summer as should value for money.
Bosmans represent a great way to improve the squad without breaking the bank and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Rangers utilise this market.
Daniel Johnson was clearly a player known to Michael Beale three years ago and one that he wanted.
We’ll soon see in a few weeks time whether or not he still does.
