‘Bubbling away’ – Gerrard reveals fresh contract talks with key Rangers ace
Rangers have opened talks with Borna Barisic over a possible contract extension, according to manager Steven Gerrard.
The Croatian has caught the eye with his impressive form so far this season, so much so that Italian giants are understood to be weighing up a potential swoop for him, according to the Sunday Post.
But Ibrox boss Gerrard has suggested that the Bears are eager to tie him down to a new deal instead.
As quoted by the Daily Record, he said: “We’ve opened up contract negotiations with Borna and his representatives.
“That’s bubbling away and I think that shows our intent and how much we want to keep the player.
“I think the player’s really happy here.”
Barisic has already made as many appearances this season as he did during the entirety of last term, nothing 13 assists in the process, including two in the Old Firm win at Parkhead at the end of December.
As quoted in the same article, Gerrard also said: “We don’t want any of our best players to go.
“There will be players around the squad who will go out on loan, any day now. That could happen today, it could happen next Monday. We’ll see.
“But in terms of selling any of our assets, any of our top players, that won’t be happening.”
What does this mean for Rangers and Barisic?
To be blunt, you would hope that it means he can be persuaded to sign a new deal at Ibrox.
The Croatian has taken his game up a notch or two so far this term, and he looks every inch the best left-back in Scotland at the moment, as Andy Walker anointed him not too long ago, as per The Scottish Sun.
A lot of this depends on whether or not the Gers have to deal with a big bid for him though.
Gossip and speculation are one thing, but it’s another thing entirely to have a lump sum sitting on the table in front of you.
According to the Daily Record, the Gers value Barisic at well in excess of £10 million.
If somebody came in and offered them that amount, would they be able to turn it down?
You would hope so, but it wouldn’t be an easy thing to do.
In other news, Alan Hutton backs rarely seen Rangers ace to become ‘big figure’ at Ibrox after ‘sticky’ start.