Michael Beale responds to Rangers transfer speculation amid moves for Todd Cantwell and Morgan Whittaker
Michael Beale believes Rangers transfer targets Todd Cantwell and Morgan Whittaker will move clubs this month and has heaped praise on the English duo.
Norwich City midfielder, Cantwell, has been heavily linked with a move to Ibrox throughout this window, and reports [Fourth Official, 9 January] have suggested the Gers are in advanced talks to sign the 24-year-old this month.
Also, the Gers have reportedly [Scottish Sun, 16 January] had a £900,000 bid, for Swansea City’s highly-rated forward Whittaker knocked back with the Welsh club holding out for £2million to sell.
And speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the game against Kilmarnock [via Daily Record, 17 January], Beale said: “They’re two excellent players (Todd and Morgan) and we’re looking for excellent players. They’re at different stages of their career but they’re two players who we’re aware of, that are good players, and will probably move in this window.
“No news coming out doesn’t mean bad news. We’re all on the same page. We’re working away, we’re in the middle of the month and really pleased with the way things are going. I have more insight than everyone else and I realise fans are really wanting new players in and we’re working on bringing the right ones. As soon as we get any news we’ll certainly send it.”
Quality additions
The Gers could do with some much-needed attacking quality this month, and acquiring the services of Cantwell and Whittaker could represent a strong statement of intent from Beale.
Fashion Sakala and Ryan Kent remain Beale’s top two options in the wide positions, but in order for the club to consistently challenge for trophies in the long haul, they would need capable understudies.
Cantwell certainly fits the bill because of his valuable top-level experience in the Premier League, his reliability and 1v1 qualities up against opposition defenders and his uniqueness in the final third. He also possesses the character to thrive at Ibrox.
And whilst Whittaker may seem a risk to some because of his lack of experience, his huge potential and readiness to take the next step make him a must-have for Beale.
The 22-year-old recorded a remarkable nine goals and seven assists in 25 appearances for Plymouth Argyle in League One, and his decisiveness in attack is something Rangers could do with in order to hit that next level and maintain a strong challenge for Celtic, with a keen eye on next season.
Who knows, Whittaker may well be considered a long-term replacement for Kent or Sakala who are sure to attract plenty of interest from Premier League clubs in the near future.
In other Rangers news, star man’s future is in doubt as Gers appear to locate an ideal replacement.