Rangers: Joshua Barrie shares latest on January loan move for Groningen striker Kevin van Veen
Journalist Joshua Barrie says it is “unlikely” that Rangers will consider a January move for Groningen striker Kevin van Veen.
Reports from the Netherlands last week, as cited by the Daily Record, linked Van Veen with a loan move to Ibrox for the second half of 2023-24.
The 32-year-old scored 29 goals in all competitions for Motherwell last season, before making the switch to Groningen in June.
Speaking on The Rangers Review podcast [27 December, 27m 20s], Jonny McFarlane talked up a move for the Dutchman.
“If you’re looking at a loan deal for a striker, you need someone you know is going to score in the Scottish Premiership,” he said.
“If you can get a striker who has performed at a high level in the Premiership on loan, I don’t think it’s stupid to look at that.
“I’ve seen a lot of him and I like him. He’s got quick feet and is a big guy who is also skilful and can produce something out of the top drawer.
“When he was playing for Motherwell, a big fish in a small pond, he was absolutely terrific for them, scoring goal after goal.”
However, Barrie poured cold water on the speculation, saying: “From what I’ve been told, it’s unlikely to happen.”
Proven record
On the face of it, a move for Van Veen does indeed make sense. After all, his record in Scottish football is there for everyone to see.
After struggling at Scunthorpe United, Van Veen certainly found his feet at Motherwell as he scored a record number of goals in a season.
If Rangers are going to bring in any new players in January, they will likely be relying on the loan market unless any current stars move on.
With Cyriel Dessers set to head off to the Africa Cup of Nations, and Danilo currently sidelined, a new striker may well be a top priority.
Philippe Clement will also be looking at the left-back position in the longer term, as well as the wide positions.
The big question, though, is whether any players will be available in those areas next month?
It sounds as though Groningen are not open to loaning out Van Veen, and signing a player who turns 33 next year on a permanent basis does not make sense.
If a loan can be negotiated, great. If not, this is one to swiftly move on from.
In other Rangers news, Jonny McFarlane has raised a “concern” ahead of the Gers’ trip to Celtic at the weekend.