Rangers would be clear winners in Lewis Ferguson and Connor Barron transfer swap
Rangers interest in Bologna midfielder Lewis Ferguson could hinge on Connor Barron's future.
The latter has been a fringe player since his move to Ibrox in 2024, while the former has gone on to star for Scotland at the World Cup.
The Gers want to sign Ferguson, but they know that it will a difficult deal to strike with the seven-time Italian champions.
Barron is still on Bologna's shortlist after they tried to sign him last summer, but that was rejected straight away.
While the potential of a swap deal hasn't appeared, the Bears could surely utilise him in negotiations and the sides could technically do just that.
Derek McInnes' side would be the clear winners if that situation was to arise, even with added cash on top.
What the numbers say about Lewis Ferguson and Connor Barron
Ferguson is the better player right now, there is no doubt about that, but Barron's numbers actually edge him.
He completed 87.7 per cent of his passes in Serie A last season, while creating 16 chances for teammates, per Fotmob data.
He made 1.47 tackles, 3.55 and 1.52 clearances on a per 90 basis in the Italian top-flight.
In terms of duels, the 26-year-old won 52.8 per cent of his duels on the ground and 51.7 per cent in the air.
Barron completed 88.9 per cent of his passes, and created 28 chances for the Gers last season.
He made 2.91 tackles, 5.65 ball recoveries and 1.76 clearances per game, showing defensive security.
In terms of duels, the 23-year-old won 53.2 per cent of his duels on the ground and 50 per cent in the air.
Why Ferguson is still the better option for Rangers
The Gers would be obvious winners from the potential deal, despite the numbers being in Barron's favour.
That is because Ferguson plays in a much harder league, one which is regarded as a top-five division in Europe.
His quality would make him an instant starter with the Bears, maybe even captain, something which Barron has not been able to achieve so far.
If McInnes side could include the former Aberdeen man in a deal for the senior man and reduce the fee that way, it would be a masterclass.