Jonny Evans has been suggested by the Rangers board as a possible transfer option to try and help ease their current defensive crisis.
Philippe Clement has had to make do after injuries to John Souttar, Neraysho Kasanwirjo, Leon Balogun, James Tavernier and now Dujon Sterling. The Belgian is extremely short on options and the middle of the backline is now an urgent January priority. Record Sport understands that Man Utd defender Evans is one name that was suggested to the manager by a member of the club hierarchy. However, the Northern Ireland legend’s age is thought to be putting Clement off the idea, with his preference being for someone younger, given he already has Balogun in the squad as an older head.
Another name that has been floated will be familiar to Gers fans. Nikola Katic had his time in Govan hampered by injuries, but former Ibrox favourite and agent Craig Moore – who knows a thing or two about what’s required – reckons the Croat is the type of player Clement should be targeting.
“Interesting one. Central defender who I think Rangers need and a player that has crossed our desks in the last days is [Nikola] Katic,” he told Go Radio. “A former Rangers player.
“Obviously was very, very solid at the club and unfortunately picked up an ACL injury and then ended up in Croatia and all that sort of stuff to get his fitness. How Rangers supporters would feel towards a player like Katic, I think it is important that whatever player – if Rangers do look to bring in a central defender – needs to hit the ground running.
“There is no time transition of three or four months. It is now. You’ve got to deliver now. He would be a player that would certainly fit that profile. “
Ryan Porteous’ future at Watford seems to be in doubt, with reports from the continent suggesting he’s unhappy at Vicarage Road. Despite not being the most popular figure amongst the Light Blues faithful during his time at Hibs, the Scotland star has been linked and Moore can see some benefits.
He added: “He knows the domestic game inside out. If he is not playing at Watford. Look, those type of players are certainly one to consider for me. If they are not getting game time down south. Not a bad option at all. We know he would be absolutely fine up here.
“He’s not going to run into anything that he isn’t aware of. He’s seen it and experienced it. Naturally left-sided I am sure and quite physical. He will be one of a few options I am pretty sure Rangers will be looking at.”