Malik Tillman transfer update as Rangers news emerges from Ibrox on Tuesday
Doubt has been cast on Malik Tillman’s Rangers future, following news that the club is set to target Kieran Dowell as reported by the Scottish Daily Mail [Page 71, 25 April].
The USA international player came in for some criticism after the 2-0 loss to Aberdeen in what was an ineffective performance, at Pittodrie.
Rangers are understood to have a purchase option for Tillman as part of the loan-to-buy deal that was thrashed out with Bayern Munich at the start of the season, with Chris Jack previously reporting his move was a priority.
As an attacking midfielder, if Dowell was to arrive at Ibrox, it would obviously add to the competition for the role that the German-American operates in at present.
That situation was alluded to, in the report from the Mail, which pointed to a crucial transfer decision that lies ahead this summer.
“Rangers have yet to reach a decision on a £5million option to sign midfielder Malik Tillman, currently on loan from Bayern Munich.”
Defining decision
To date, 10 goals and four assists represent a more than decent return for Tillman in his first season as a Rangers player.
It is also his first campaign as a first-team regular following his previous experience in Bavaria where he spent more time in the B team, in addition to his important exposure with the senior side.
His impact has been very evident including key moments in the Champions League qualifiers, at home to Union Saint Gilloise and then in Eindhoven against PSV.
There is an obvious claim that he will only improve and get better over the next couple of years, providing an asset to Rangers on and off the pitch.
Conversely, some critics will point to his limited displays in the games against Celtic so far, where he is yet to shine, as well as the typical rough and tumble of Scottish football like at Aberdeen on Sunday. In that type of contest, the attacker’s languid style can be frustrating. He does need to be more assertive.
There will be another couple of twists and turns in this saga, yet.
In other Rangers news, Premier League player on the verge of Ibrox move as Michael Beale aims to seal new transfer.