Fenerbahce defender Martin Skrtel remains a target for Rangers boss Steven Gerrard, according to Fotomac.
The Turkish outlet reports on its website that Gerrard is keen to reignite the Gers’ interest in the powerhouse after missing out on signing him in the summer transfer window due to financial terms, despite Skrtel’s agent claiming that he would be more than happy to play under Gerrard.
The report states that Gerrard has not given up hope of landing the centre-back, who is able to talk to other clubs in January due his deal at the Super Lig club expiring in the summer and negotiate a pre-contract agreement.
Good move for Rangers?
Gerrard made finding defensive reinforcements a top priority when he took over as manager at the Ibrox, signing the likes of Connor Goldson, Nikola Katic and Gareth McAuley. However, McAuley is out of contract next summer, so this would be a good move for the Gers. Even though Skrtel is 33-years-old, he would be a quality addition to the Rangers side, bringing a bit of experience to a relatively young back line. If Gerrard is after defensive reinforcements, then Skrtel, who has an impressive track record and stands at 6ft 3in (source: Transfermarkt) is his man.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Yes, it does seem likely to happen. Skrtel is free to talk to clubs in January whilst McAuley is out of contract in the summer – which means that he will need another defender. Gerrard has an edge in the fact that he knows Skrtel well from their playing days at Liverpool, and the Slovakian would no doubt jump at the chance to work with one of his former teammates once again. The fact that he would be available on a free transfer in the summer is also a bonus for the manager – which means we could very well see Skrtel in a blue shirt come the start of next season.
This is Futbol rating: 8.5/10