Alex Rae identifies four key areas Rangers need to strengthen this summer
Alex Rae has claimed that Rangers must secure four more signings this summer to mount a successful title challenge next season.
The Gers finished 13 points behind Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership table this term, and have already moved to bring in January loanee Ianis Hagi on a permanent deal.
But Rae believes reinforcements are still required, and has suggested that two new full-backs, a new central midfielder, and another striker should be top priorities if his former club are to usurp their bitter city rivals.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, he said: “Rangers will need a right-back and a left-back. Jon Flanagan and Andy Halliday have gone so there is no cover there.
“In the middle of the park, there is the argument that a bit of needle is required. From the start of last season to the winter break, Ryan Jack was as good as anyone in Scotland in the middle of the park. But he picked up injuries and the team struggled without him.
“I think another striker is needed as we don’t even know if Alfredo Morelos will stay. But I don’t think major surgery is required. Steven will be comfortable his starting XI can go toe-to-toe with anyone.
“The problems will arise when injuries and suspensions mount up — that’s where Celtic have strength and depth.”
Does Rae have a point?
We’d definitely be inclined to agree with him, yes.
Bringing in cover at full-back feels like a must with both Flanagan and Halliday leaving this summer, although there is an argument to be made for young Nathan Patterson being handed a more senior role in the first team next term.
In midfield, Ryan Jack has proven time and time again that he is a superlative talent, and when he is missing, his absence is acutely felt.
Even Michael Stewart has hailed the Scotland international for the transformative that Jack has helped to enact in the centre of the park at Ibrox, and it’s no coincidence that the Gers began to suffer a dip in form in 2020 as he completed 90 minutes in the league on just four occasions.
Suitable cover would be a huge boost for Steven Gerrard’s men.
Up front, a lot will depend on whether or not Alfredo Morelos stays put, but even if the Colombian is still in Glasgow by the time the new season rolls around, some more firepower wouldn’t go amiss.
Wantaway Charlton Athletic strike Lyle Taylor has been linked ahead of a potential free transfer, and if he could be lured north of the border, he may prove to be the ideal addition to aid Morelos and veteran hitman Jermain Defoe.
In other Rangers news, Ibrox View: Rangers should step up reported Kouyate interest.