Rangers prepared for loan transfer of Everton outcast
Rangers are "waiting in the wings" to sign Everton defender Mason Holgate as his loan deal is set to be cut short at Southampton, according to The Sun.
The newspaper has reported [11 December] that the Toffees are expected to recall Holgate from his loan due to a lack of game time and find him a new club during the January transfer window.
The 27-year-old has become a shadow at Goodison Park under Sean Dyche, prompting a move to the Saints on a season-long loan. However, the defender has only managed five appearances since.
It is understood that Championship duo Middlesbrough and Watford are also in contention to sign the centre-back on a temporary deal in January.
Holgate's deal ends in the summer of 2025. But with James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite the trusted centre-back partnership under Dyche, and Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey as backups, Godfrey's chances at Goodison are slim.
Sticky situation for Toffees defender
Holgate finally looked to be finding his feet at the club since switching from Barnsley in 2015 and has managed to rack up 149 appearances. However, he fell out of favour during the 2022/23 season, as well as suffer an injury setback.
A move would be a smart move for the Gers, developing his trade under Philippe Clement. With 35-year-old Leon Balogun and 30-year-old Connor Goldson as the Belgian's defensive duo of choice, it would be a safe bet to bring in a much younger option.
While there is clearly a common denominator between a lack of game time at both Everton and Southampton, Rangers could offer Holgate the perfect opportunity to show the Toffees what he is truly capable of.
There is a risk of the transfer going pear-shaped. But a loan deal for Holgate puts no pressure on the club to pay a transfer fee and be stuck with him. And he will offer decent coverage for the Gers' older players.