Dan Carter

Wed 3 January 2024 16:40, UK

Peter Grant has heaped praise on Josh Doig as links continue between the Verona left-back and Rangers, suggesting the January transfer target has “great ability”.

Rangers have reportedly made an approach to sign the 21-year-old left-back from the Serie A club this January, but it remains to be seen whether the Light Blues will match Verona’s £5.5million valuation [Daily Record, 1 January].

While the fee required to secure his services is steep, BBC Sport pundit Grant has suggested that he would be an excellent addition to Philippe Clement’s side, praising both his attitude and bravery to depart Scotland at such a young age.

Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show (3 January, 1:11:00) he said: “I like him. I liked him when he broke through at Hibs, I liked his attitude, keen to do well. I like the fact he’s taken on this added responsibility. This huge challenge of going over to Italy and trying to make a name for himself which he has done.

“Whatever he goes on to in his career now, whether he comes back to Scotland or stays in Italy, he’s shown himself to be a guy that takes on a challenge and meets it head on. He’s got great ability.”

Mark Guidi offered his verdict saying: “Bigger picture, it’s a lesson again. Why did you not go for him 18 months ago when he was available?

“They’ve missed out on a few players, there’s some right under your nose that are really good players and with the setup you have, the coaches that you have you should be able to kick them on as well.”

Frustrating situation

As Guidi suggested, Rangers had the power and the ability to get this deal done when Doig was at Hibernian, but for whatever reason they let that opportunity pass them by and are now playing catch-up for his signature.

The 21-year-old however, made the switch to Serie A with Verona and hasn’t looked back since, going from strength to strength in Italy and kicking on his career, while Rangers continue to search for a consistent left-back.

However, having made that big career shift early in his career, Doig will likely return to Scotland ready and prepared to take on the challenge of playing for an Old Firm side, should the Gers act upon their interest and make a move for the defender.

Whether the Light Blues move to bring the 21-year-old to Ibrox remains unknown, but he certainly has the skill set to be an excellent asset to Clement’s side and would play a major part in the second half of the campaign.

In other Rangers news, Alan Brazil has destroyed Clement live on talkSPORT branding the Gers boss “arrogant” after the defeat to Celtic