Rangers manager Steven Gerrard is set to launch a raid on his former club once more as he is targeting Liverpool right-back Jon Flanagan, according to the Daily Record.
The report states that the Gers boss wants competition for the full-back slot with James Tavernier and sees the one-time England capped right-flanker as the right man for the job after he spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Bolton where he impressed.
Gerrard has already used his Anfield connections to sign Ovie Ajaria on a season-long loan and it looks as though they will be doing this once more with Flanagan’s capture.
Premier League giants Liverpool have already given permission to the 25-year-old to leave the club this summer, meaning he would be available on a free transfer.
The defender has played 46 Premier League games with one goal and three assists to his name.
Good move for Rangers?
Competition for places and quality competition for places is not something Rangers have had a wealth of in recent years – but with Flanagan wanted by his former teammate, that is exactly what they would be getting.
Off-field issues blighted the defender this season, but he will be hopeful that a move north of the border can lead to a fresh start and somewhere he can finally kick-start a career that has struggled to get going.
Tavernier was one of the Light Blues top players last season but was caught out defensively, particularly against Celtic, when he showed his weakness.
Flanagan is a better defender and can also provide an outlet going forward.
This is Futbol verdict: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Flanagan is available on free transfer therefore the fact that he will cost the Ibrox club nothing will immediately appeal to the Scottish outfit.
Gerard is wanting to ensure the defence is not breached as easily and as often as it was last season which means that Flanagan’s signing is a necessity if they’re going to shore up.
With the Reds’ legend’s connections within the club, we sense that this deal is just a matter of time before it becomes a reality.
This is Futbol verdict: 7.8/10