Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos is reportedly a man in demand and according to one of the player’s former Ibrox teammates now is the time to take advantage of it.
Morelos, 25, has been extensively linked with a move to FC Porto this summer but there remains some contention regarding both a transfer fee and the seriousness of the interest [A Bola].
It’s not the first time Alfie has drawn interest – his four years at Ibrox have seen him linked away almost perennially – with Rangers reportedly turning down a £16.25m bid from Lille last season [Daily Mail].
During the early part of his Ibrox career, Alfredo’s best mate at the club was Portuguese winger Daniel Candeias.
Now of Alanyaspor in Turkey, via a spell with divisional rivals Gençlerbirliği, Candeias left Ibrox two seasons ago after the Gers told the winger he’d be a squad player in Glasgow.
Candeias, 33, believes that whilst Alfie “loves” Rangers, it might be time for a new challenge with Morelos hoping to “prove” himself elsewhere.
“He loves Rangers and it’s a fantastic club, but after four years I think he’s done his job. He will always be an idol,” said Candeias [Scottish Sun].
“I think he wants to prove to himself he can now compete and shine at another club.
“Porto is ideal for him as there are so many attractions.
“They have direct access to the Champions League and there are the other Colombians in the squad. I think it will also help him play for the national team.
“I see a change in motivation. I’ve been getting involved with him, telling him that I’m waiting to see him at Porto.”
Whilst Candeias might see Alfie’s future elsewhere, Rangers manager Steven Gerrard certainly doesn’t with the Ibrox gaffer planning to have Morelos in the squad for next season.