Rangers should consider a move for free agent Axel Tuanzebe, after missing out on transfer target Auston Trusty.
Trusty looks set to complete a £5m move to Sheffield United despite Rangers registering their interest in the Arsenal defender, but they could swoop for the Blades’ alternative target to make up for this disappointment.
Tuanzebe is currently a free agent following his release from Manchester United, and is on Sheffield United’s radar, but with Trusty now set to move to Bramall Lane, Rangers may have a free run at the 25-year-old, with whom they have been previously linked.
Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has denied that there is any agreement for Tuanzebe to join his side, ahead of Trusty’s mooted transfer.
Rangers are in the market for a central defender following a long term injury to Leon King, and Tuanzebe could be an excellent deal for Michael Beale.
What would Tuanzebe bring to Ibrox?
The Englishman, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Stoke, needs to revitalise his career after a few disappointing years.
He showed great promise at Man United and Aston Villa, having made a combined 83 appearances across the two clubs, and if he can build up some consistency in his fitness, he may be able to return to a high level of performance.
Tuanzebe was described as “really good” by Stoke manager Alex Neil during his loan spell, and could be a solid addition to the Rangers back line whilst King is absent.
He would bring a lot of experience despite his relatively young age, and he could be a long-term option if he settles well at Ibrox.
Given that he is currently a free agent, this could be a risk-free deal for Beale, and offering him a short-term contract and a run in the first team to cover for King could allow the club to assess whether he is worth investing in as a key option.
