Ferguson tells Sunderland what to do after Rabbi Matondo exit news at Rangers
Sunderland and Rangers have been mentioned together frequently already ahead of the summer transfer window, and it appears unlikely to stop.
Rangers have a lot in common with the Black Cats, in the sense that they are massive clubs who have fallen far short of expectations in recent years.
Sunderland, however, sealed their return to the Premier League for the first time in eight years, while the Light Blues will be forced to rue a trophyless season throughout the summer.
However, as a result of their promotion, Sunderland have been told to swerve their interest in signing a Rangers man, and it showcases the difficult task that lies ahead for the Gers.
Rabbi Matondo could be on the move this summer
Rangers need to recruit well this summer if they are to get back to being a side that can compete with Celtic, though sanctioning exits will be just as important to raise the funds to do so.
Nico Raskin has been linked with a move away, as have several other Light Blue stars, but the future of Rabbi Matondo is especially unclear after a failed loan spell in Germany.
| Matondo | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Rangers | 8 | 2 | 3 |
| Hannover | 10 | 1 | 0 |
Sunderland had been linked with a move to Matondo, but given their promotion, Derek Ferguson thinks they should be looking elsewhere for potential recruits.
Speaking to Mackem News, he said: “You have to wonder if they’ve done their homework on Matondo. He’s a talented boy, but he just can’t put a run of games together. There will always be a coach who thinks they can be the one to get a tune out of a player.
“But I think Sunderland – or any other club – would be taking a big chance if they go down that route. For me, if you’re Sunderland, they’re better off looking elsewhere.”
Given the lack of form Matondo has showcased this season, it remains to be seen where his future lies, though it appears highly unlikely to be at Ibrox.
Rangers have a huge summer ahead
Before any other considerations are made, Rangers need to end the managerial uncertainty at Ibrox to kick on with their summer plans.
Once that is out of the way, recruitment is going to be crucial, and the Gers will be afforded no margin for error in their attempts to return to the summit of Scottish football.
An impressive run in the Europa League was the only thing Rangers fans had to shout home about, and that needs to change next season.