Luke Graham transfer surprise emerges in Rangers and Celtic latest
Steven Pressley can’t believe neither Rangers nor Celtic made a move for Dundee defender Luke Graham in the winter transfer window.
The Dark Blues’ manager feels the 22-year-old defender is capable of playing in the Premier League someday.
As a result, it has come as no surprise to the Scottish boss that the Old Firm clubs are keeping tabs on the youngster ahead of the summer.
Dan Purdy went to personally scout Graham at Dens Park recently, and it looks like the Light Blues are serious about signing him sooner rather than later.
Rangers have Luke Graham priority after Ibrox development
John Souttar’s contract is in its final months, and he could leave the Gers as a free agent at the end of the season.
The Light Blues made a significant investment in centre-backs last summer at Ibrox, signing Emmanuel Fernandez, Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius.
However, the latter two are on loan at the Glaswegian outfit and will be returning to their parent clubs, leaving Danny Rohl with limited depth in the backline.
Speaking to the media on 18 February, Pressley said, “The only thing that surprised me was that neither Celtic or Rangers looked to be pursuing him in January. He’s maybe a couple of steps away, but I believe that Luke’s a Premier League player. News of them being interested doesn’t surprise me at all.”
Dujon Sterling and James Tavernier have been deployed at centre-back on a few occasions this season due to fitness issues, underscoring the need for more defensive options.
Graham has been a standout performer for Dundee in the current campaign as they look to avoid relegation, and his future will certainly be one to keep an eye on.
Danny Rohl has decision to make on defender, it’s not John Souttar
Rangers signed Cornelius last summer on loan from Olympique Marseille, with the deal including an option to buy the centre-back.
The Canada international had become an important player for Rohl before being sidelined by injury in late November.
While the 28-year-old should be back in action anytime soon, it remains to be seen whether he can retain his place in the starting lineup.
At the end of the season, the German manager and the Ibrox hierarchy will also be tasked with deciding whether to sign Cornelius permanently, which will be an interesting dilemma considering his injury record in Govan.
For the latest Gers transfer news, visit Football Insider and have a look at their exclusive content.