‘Have to be sure’ – Exclusive: Alex McLeish casts doubt on reported Rangers swoop for 24y/o
We’re delighted to welcome former Rangers manager Alex McLeish as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Alex McLeish has claimed Steven Gerrard and Rangers won’t swoop for Peterborough winger Siriki Dembele in the January window without having “tremendous” knowledge.
Peterborough Live have reported that the Bears are interested in the 24-year-old, who could cost up to £2million next month.
McLeish believes that Dembele would be nothing short of a rotation option at Ibrox, and could only make cameo appearances if brought in this season.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, McLeish said, “Whether or not they take the plunge with that one, they have to be sure, the recruitment guys have to be sure, and I’m sure the manager will get to have a look at him with his backroom guys.
“He’s not for now, he’s for the future, he could make a little cameo appearance in the coming games right up to the title day. I wouldn’t think he would plunge into something without having tremendous knowledge about him.”
Dembele has been one of the standout talents in League One for many years now under Duncan Ferguson at the Western Homes Stadium.
The exciting winger was born in Scotland and could represent a bargain for the Bears next month, but they do face competition from the likes of Celtic.
Gerrard will be keeping a close eye on Dembele, who has been involved in eight goals for Peterborough this season – a tally he may want to see dramatically improve before making a move.
The Light Blues have a strong side, especially in the final third, but adding little bits of competition and more flair wouldn’t be the worst decisions – time will tell.
In other Rangers news, Alex McLeish shares verdict on first-team chances of Middleton