Rangers want to hijack Stoke City deal to sign Dujon Sterling amid Chelsea contract development
Rangers are keen on the summer signature of Chelsea defender Dujon Sterling, according to the Scottish Sun.
But the 23-year-old right-back is also wanted at Stoke City, having just spent a season on loan with the Potters. His Chelsea contract will expire at the end of the season.
Stoke boss Alex Neil wants to make the move permanent, but Gers manager Michael Beale is eager to hijack any deal by bringing Sterling to Ibrox.
“Rangers are eyeing a move for Chelsea defender Dujon Sterling,” according to the Scottish Sun. “The 23-year-old is out of contract after a season on loan at Stoke City.
“Potters boss Alex Neil is keen to make the signing permanent. But Gers boss Michael Beale knows Sterling from their time together at Stamford Bridge and hopes to hijack the deal.
“He was keen to take the utility man to QPR last summer and is poised to make a fresh move.”
Impressive youngster
Rangers need to strengthen in all areas amid a very disappointing campaign for the club, who have witnessed fierce rivals Celtic topple them in every way.
Beale is expected to be very busy in the summer transfer window, with Rangers set to be linked with a long, long list of players over the coming months.
While new and unfamiliar faces will be sought, Beale will also likely turn to players he knows well, and that is the case with Sterling.
The young defender impressed on his loan spell in the Championship with Stoke this season, showing superb versatility by playing in various positions, including all across the defence and even at right and left midfield.
That characteristic is rare these days, and it is something that is perhaps drawing Beale to the youngster.
Sterling’s time at Chelsea is seemingly over, and now represents the perfect time for the player to embark on a new challenge, with a difficult but enjoyable one waiting for him at Ibrox should he go for it.
In other Rangers news, Michael Stewart has stated that one player has been a standout for the Gers in an otherwise disappointing season.