Liverpool defender Owen Beck may become long-term Borna Barisic successor at Rangers
Philippe Clement should be urging the Rangers board to pursue the acquisition of Liverpool-owned left-back Owen Beck who has also been touted for Celtic.
Kenny Miller told BBC Sportsound, as quoted by Football Scotland, that he expects both Old Firm clubs to be keeping tabs on the 21-year-old Welshman.
Beck is currently at Dundee on loan for the rest of the season and has showcased his attacking ability, finding the back of the net a couple of times.
Miller said: “I’m looking forward to seeing Owen Beck today. In the games that I’ve seen him this year, he’s been absolutely outstanding. This goes again to show the loans and opportunities that can be presented, from the big clubs in England up to Scotland to play.
“I would expect, for me, maybe the big two up here [Rangers and Celtic] to be having a look at this player. Both of them could do with a player in that area of the pitch and he’s been outstanding.”
The young left-back’s versatility, demonstrated through his impactful performances in the final third, aligns seamlessly with Clement’s tactical preferences.
With Borna Barisic potentially entering the twilight of his Rangers career and Ridvan Yilmaz facing inconsistency and injury concerns, securing a promising left-back like Beck becomes imperative for the team’s future stability in that position.
Beck’s noteworthy contributions, including a senior debut for Liverpool and standout displays in under-23 matches, underscore his readiness for top-tier football.
Liverpool reserves’ head coach Barry Lewtas has also hailed his performances in the past.
He said in 2022: “I thought Owen was fantastic. The progress he has made over his time at the Academy, but certainly the last couple of years, is a credit to him with the work he puts in [and] how coachable he is because he listens and takes on board the information we give him.
“He has become a real consistent performer for us and in my opinion, he was the standout player against Derby.”
As a Wales youth international, Beck not only brings domestic experience but also international exposure, adding both depth and diversity to the squad.
The impending conclusion of Barisic’s contract and the prospect of his departure in the upcoming transfer window heighten the urgency for securing Beck as a strategic long-term investment.
The Crotian’s deal runs out at the end of the season which makes him free to sign a pre-contract with a foreign club from January 1.
Beck’s proficiency in front of goal further enhances his value, providing an additional dimension to Rangers’ attacking options from the defensive flank and a long-term replacement for Barisic.
Yilmaz’s inconsistency and injury proneness have underscored the need for a reliable backup in the left-back position.
Beck’s potential signing addresses both immediate requirements and aligns with the long-term vision, ensuring continuity and success for Rangers under Clement’s management.
The Belgian is likely to emphasise the importance of proactive recruitment, especially in light of Barisic’s potential departure and the necessity for a reliable successor like the 21-year-old.
Securing Welshman’s services not only addresses the immediate needs but also aligns with the long-term vision for sustained success that Clement aims to achieve at Rangers.
In other Rangers news, the club may now look to sign an international striker in January amid a recent £2.3m development.