Leopold Querfeld isn’t exactly the type of name that rolls off the tongue, however, Rangers have been linked with a player with the potential to replicate European royalty.
A 6ft 3inch tall centre-half, Gers boss Philippe Clement could already be preparing for next season as the first transfer rumour sees the gaffer identify an area of his squad that has come under scrutiny recently.
Currently at Rapid Vienna, Leopold Querfeld seems to fit the profile of players who Rangers have been targeted recently, young, established but with the ability to develop, and the 20-year old bears a resemblance to a familiar face.
Leopold Querfeld could be Rangers version of Euro legend
Not in how he looks, but in terms of how he plays.
To be a centre-half for Rangers, defenders have to be able to do everything.
Look at our last two games.
At Ibrox against Motherwell, John Souttar and Connor Goldson had to defend over half the pitch on their own, whereas, against Benfica, it was backs to the wall for the most part.
Querfeld is one of these defenders.
As shown by DataMB, when compared to other players, Rangers target Leopold Querfeld has striking similarities to Mats Hummels, one of the most decorated players on the continent with multiple domestic trophies and a World Cup to his name.
He is also one of the most respected for a reason.
His powers may have waned in recent years but he remains a consistent performer for Borussia Dortmund.
Against Rangers in 2022 he didn’t exactly cover himself in glory though.
Despite Hummels not being the player he once was, this is an encouraging link given that the Austria Under-21 international is approaching the last 12-months of his contract and Vienna have a decision to make.
There will be question marks about two current defenders in the summer.
One will be Leon Balogun and the other will be Ben Davies.
Is it worth extending Balogun’s stay next season if we sign someone like Querfeld?
For Davies though, there is no point in having someone like him, who could fetch a few pounds, sitting in the stands every week.
If we are lucky, selling him might cover Querfeld’s fee.
