‘From what I see from afar…’ – Gerrard responds to Rangers-Gilmour speculation
Steven Gerrard has dismissed reports suggesting Rangers could be preparing a move for Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour.
The Scottish Sun reported earlier this week that the Gers were keen on signing the 19-year-old on loan, three years after he left the club for London.
Gilmour broke into the Chelsea first team last season but has struggled for minutes this term following the arrival of Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.
However, Gerrard said that there had been no talks between the two clubs about a potential transfer.
“There’s always a lot of paper talk, there’s always a lot of speculation about a lot of players,” he said (via The Independent).
“From what I see from afar, I think Billy Gilmour is pretty settled at Chelsea. He has obviously had an injury. Every time I listen to Frank [Lampard] he’s really happy with the player. He’s a fabulous little player, but there’s been no contact between the clubs or the managers.”
Not the right time
Gilmour is a very talented player and given that he came through the academy at Rangers, fans will be keen to see him fulfil his potential at Ibrox.
Given that he has managed just three appearances so far this season (via WhoScored), a loan move would not be the worst option for him, but Glasgow is perhaps not the best option for either him or the club.
With Gerrard and his team fighting on multiple fronts squad depth is essential, but central midfield is a very well-stocked position. Furthermore, the former England midfielder has leaned on his experienced players like Steven Davis, Scott Arfield and Ryan Jack, so it is tough to see him putting his trust in a 19-year-old when things get serious.
For Gilmour’s progression, he needs to go and play every week and as talented as he is, that probably would not be possible at Ibrox.
In other Rangers news, Gerrard drops Rangers transfer hint, deal reportedly close