Rangers Christmas present with Kevin van Veen update gives them title edge over Celtic
Securing the signature of Kevin van Veen in the January transfer window could significantly boost title aspirations for Rangers and position them as favourites over Celtic.
With Gers currently sitting in second place with 43 points and Celtic just ahead with 45 points, but having played one more game, the addition of the 32-year-old could be a game-changer.
On 25 December, the Scottish Sun quoted Groningen’s sports director Wouter Gudde confirming that the Dutchman will be allowed to leave, amid links with a move to Ibrox – handing the club a Christmas present.
He said, “I talk to Kevin on the phone almost every day and if there is interest because he is not playing, we will listen.
“If another club makes a concrete offer and the solution is good, we will cooperate with his departure.
“In principle of course, he is welcome to return to the club when we return to training on January 3 too.”
The Dutchman’s prolific goal-scoring record, particularly his remarkable 29 goals for Motherwell in the previous season, showcases his ability to make a substantial impact in the Scottish Premiership.
His familiarity with the league and proven track record would provide Philippe Clement with a reliable and experienced attacking option, crucial for overcoming their current striker crisis with Danilo sidelined.
In a title race where every goal and every point matters, van Veen’s goal-scoring prowess could be the missing link for Gers.
His potential partnership with the likes of Abdallah Sima or other attacking options would add depth and versatility to the squad, making them more formidable in the attacking third.
Celtic have been shaky in recent games and doubts have been creeping in over Brendan Rodgers’ ability to handle the expectations.
They’ll undoubtedly be on edge with the van Veen links and if Gers manage to secure his signing, Rodgers surely will be ringing the Celtic board and asking them to sign a game changer or two in January as well.
In other Rangers news, the club may now look to sign an international striker in January amid a recent £2.3m development.