Rangers look set to miss out on their summer target Nikola Katic, as the defender heads to Russia on Sunday ahead of a talks with Spartak Moscow, according to the Daily Record.
The report states that Rangers approached Slaven Belupo with an enquiry about the 6ft 4in (transfermarkt) colossus three weeks ago, but will miss their chance to snatch him as he heads to Russia for contract talks.
It is understood that there was no bid from Rangers, but Steven Gerrard’s plans to try and sign the defender now look to be in tatters and he will have to look elsewhere for a new enforcer.
OPINION
Defence is clearly an issue currently at Rangers, as the light blues conceded a league-high 50 goals during their last campaign, twice as many as did League winners Celtic. Gerrard must make landing some new, quality defenders a priority, having already signed three midfield players in Scott Arfield, Jamie Murphy and Ovie Ejaria. If Gerrard can bring in some talent to steady the ship at the back, his focus could be set on testing Celtic for the top spot, but this seems far away. The former England captain does have time on his side, having already completed four signings prior to the World Cup starting, so Gers fans can look forward to a whole summer of shipping in players to hopefully improve the team. Katic represents an opportunity missed, as the defender is of international quality, and would’ve brought some much needed fresh legs to the back line at the Ibrox; but this will stand to be a test of Rangers battle, as they delve deeper into their list of targets.