OPINION
Rangers are slowly losing pace in the race for the Scottish Premier League title this season, but Steven Gerrard must cast one eye on the next campaign.
By casting one eye, that means identifying transfer targets in the summer ready to take Rangers to the next level and close the gap on Celtic.
Everton attacking midfielder Nikola Vlasic – who is currently on loan at CSKA Moscow – has hinted to Russian outlet Bob Soccer that it would be easy for him to leave his parent club.
“I truly believe that I am at home, this is my team, and if the decision depended only on me, it would be a very easy choice. I’d say yes and remain a CSKA footballer, but, unfortunately, there are several other interested parties,” he said.
This sort of suggestion should put the likes of Rangers on high alert, as signing an attacker is of the most paramount importance for Gerrard.
The 21-year-old has netted seven goals in 19 games in all competition for the Russian outfit, which is a decent return that should get the manager thinking.
Kyle Lafferty has not been at his best this season while Alfredo Morelos has a lack of discipline, meaning he cannot be relied upon for entire season.
This is why Gerrard must convince Vlasic that a move to Rangers would be ideal for him as it would be for the team.
The attacking dazzler still has a lot more to give this season, which means that his goal tally could increase even further, making him an even more attractive prospect.
Everton are also in need of a centre-forward, but seeming as Vlasic has hinted that he does not want to return there, the path for Rangers to sign the young ace has been cleared.
Gerrard would be onto a winner with a swoop for the Croatian, as he would transform the Gers in an instant.