Rangers transfer news: Celtic target Joe Gelhardt may try to force Leeds United exit
Rangers and Celtic target Joe Gelhardt may look to force an exit from Leeds United in January in the quest for game time, according to Leeds Live.
The news outlet reported on 10 January that Plymouth Argyle have also joined the Old Firm duo in the quest to sign the 21-year-old this month.
The Whites have still not understood to have made a decision on whether or not they will let go of their striker.
The report reads: “Glasgow giants Celtic and Rangers have both been linked with the 21-year-old this week, with fellow Championship team Plymouth Argyle the latest to be credited with interest in a player who would not be short of suitors whether on a loan deal until the end of the season or something permanent.
“Plymouth are said to be ready to challenge any rivals to try and land their target, but first Leeds must reach a decision on what best to do with a player who isn’t likely to feature for the first team, but the club don’t want to let go of.
“Gelhardt is young enough to bide his time, but may try force matters and request a loan move away to get some game time, something he looks like being without if he stays at Elland Road this season.”
Can do better
Rangers are looking to leapfrog Celtic in the title race and can do much better than Gelhardt in the January transfer window.
His return of just five goals in his last 60 league games indicates a lack of consistent goal-scoring form, which may not meet the standards expected at a club of Gers’ calibre.
To compete at the highest level, Rangers need a striker who can consistently find the back of the net and contribute significantly to the team’s offensive capabilities.
Gelhardt, while young and potentially promising, hasn’t demonstrated the scoring prowess necessary for a club with title ambitions.
Philippe Clement, if he’s looking for another one, should target a striker with a proven track record of goal-scoring in competitive leagues, someone who can handle the pressure of big matches and deliver when it matters most.
Acquiring a more seasoned and prolific striker aligns with the club’s ambitions and enhances their chances of success both domestically and on the European stage.
In other Rangers news, an update has emerged on the club’s pursuit to sign a new left-back as Ridvan Yilmaz’s Ibrox exit appears to be edging closer.