Rangers must swiftly reignite bid to sign Auston Trusty as transfer news emerges
Sheffield United have opened talks with Arsenal over the possibility of signing defender Auston Trusty, and Rangers must get in on the act following recent interest.
According to Telegraph journalist Mike McGrath, taking to his personal Twitter account (31 July), the Blades have opened talks with the Gunners over the possibility of signing the American and a season-long loan deal is on the cards if talks progress.
Trusty was an ever-present for Birmingham making 47 appearances in all competitions, earning himself his first cap for the USMNT after proving a success with the Championship outfit, leading to much interest from Rangers this summer.
The Scottish Mail reported on 23 July that Gers boss Michael Beale has “long craved” the left-sided central defender, with the Daily Mail writing on 8 May, that the Gers are looking at the £2m signing of the American defender after a strong loan spell at St Andrew’s this season.
However, according to the Scottish Mail (23 July), talks between the two clubs had stalled with regards to the potential transfer fee.
“Despite bringing in Leon Balogun on a free, the manager could also add the left-sided centre-back he has long craved,” according to The Scottish Mail on Sunday (pg 95, 23 July).
“Arsenal’s Auston Trusty remains his preferred option but talks over that transfer have stalled.”
But after the new development regarding a potential season-long loan, it would make ideal sense for Rangers to reignite their interest in the USA international.
With Rangers now close to sealing their ninth signing of the summer in Jose Cifuentes following their eighth in Danilo, Beale certainly wouldn’t mind bringing in another new addition, and it’s in defence where he is in urgent need of quality reinforcement, even despite the return of Balogun.
In Trusty, Rangers have an ideal and perfect solution to address those concerning central defensive frailties. The 24-year-old enjoyed a sensational breakthrough campaign in Birmingham colours last season, forming the backbone of a largely solid defence in the Championship.
Helping them to 13 clean sheets this season, the American international also impressively averaged 1.5 interceptions, 2.3 tackles and a whopping 4 clearances per game, also winning 57% of his total duels, 59% of his ground duels and 56% of his aerial duels [via SofaScore] highlighting his capabilities as a terrific and effective no-nonsense defender.
With a centre-back position still up for grabs at Ibrox and Arsenal open to season-long loan negotiations, this could be a deal worth pursuing for Beale and Rangers must quickly get back in on the act to sign him.
In other Rangers news, first-team player told to pack his bags at Ibrox and find a new club.