Chris Jack outlines ‘interesting’ move Rangers could make amid Ridvan Yilmaz, Borna Barisic transfer speculation
Journalist Chris Jack says it “would be interesting” if Rangers brought forward plans to sign a new left-back in the January transfer window.
The Gers currently have Ridvan Yilmaz and Borna Barisic battling it out for a starting spot in that position.
However, Barisic is out of contract in the summer and Ridvan has proved to be inconsistent when called upon.
A new left-back is therefore needed before next season, but Jack would be surprised if Rangers brought one in during this window.
“If you’d asked fans a few weeks back what do you want to see happen in the window, one of those boxes has already been ticked with Fabio Silva coming in,” he said on The Rangers Review podcast [4 January, 21m 45s].
“Left-back wasn’t a priority, but it would be interesting if Rangers can look to do something there. I’ve said before I have my doubts over Ridvan, as impressive as he was the other day.
“He’s been linked with a move out just as he puts in a performance, but I don’t think Ridvan has proven to be value for money.
“I don’t see him as a long-term option at left-back, and likewise Barisic as he comes to the natural end to his Ibrox career. Rangers need to strengthen in that area but I wouldn’t say it’s a priority this window.”
Stick or twist?
Rangers’ transfer chiefs will be fully aware of the situation on the left side of defence ahead of the summer transfer window.
For now, Barisic is still a Gers player and is a solid enough option when available, while Ridvan is a more-than-capable back-up player.
The Turkish defender showed in the win against Kilmarnock in midweek, when he was arguably the best Rangers player on the pitch, what he is capable of.
Perhaps it is no surprise that has come after starting successive matches, rather than coming into the side and dropping out.
Still, he has not really showed enough across his Ibrox career to suggest he is a viable option to start every single week in that position.
Right now, Philippe Clement will be more concerned about addressing other areas of the squad, but this is certainly one the club will have to keep a close eye on.
Given the speculation over the futures of both Ridvan and Barisic, it may well be that the decision to move for a left-back now is somewhat forced on them instead.
In other Rangers news, a BBC pundit has raised a “huge” problem the Gers now face on the back of their win over Kilmarnock.