Fabrizio Romano: Premier League and European clubs eye Rangers defender Leon King
A host of Premier League and European clubs are “pushing to sign” Rangers defender Leon King according to the Guardian’s Fabrizio Romano.
It’s understood that Manchester United, Leeds and Newcastle have all sent their scouts to watch the 18-year-old defender.
The Italian journalist also revealed that his contract situation is “absolutely open” with his current deal coming to a close in the summer of 2024.
“Leon King, speaking about talents and this boy playing for Rangers, born in 2004 and started at Anfield against Liverpool in the Champions League,” said Romano [Here We Go Podcast, 13:08, 10 October].
“I am told that Premier League and European clubs are pushing to sign him because he is out of contract in 2024 with Rangers.
“At the moment the situation is absolutely open with his contract. Newcastle, Leeds and Manchester United have sent their scouts to follow this boy with Rangers. Leon King, one to watch.”
Not a surprise
This really shouldn’t come as a surprise to most Rangers fans considering the start to the season King has made. At 18 he has shown maturity beyond his years and looks to be a top-class defender in the making.
His performance against Liverpool in particular demonstrated a player that will eventually be able to operate at the highest level. Romano’s revelation is the first real interest to emerge in regards to King and it will be interesting to see how the Gers handle this situation.
King would be better off remaining at Rangers for at least another two seasons. Being exposed to Champions League and regular first-team football will be invaluable for his development moving forward. However, if he continues to perform as he has done of late, a bid will eventually come in for the defender.
It would be refreshing if the hierarchy at Ibrox prioritise King’s contract situation in the coming months. The longer they leave it, the more likely his Rangers’ departure becomes.
In other Rangers news, Ross Wilson may have played a blinder for Rangers after a shocking development in October that will leave many Gers fans surprised.