Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that Rangers duo Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent could extend their contracts to stay at Ibrox following the appointment of Michael Beale as manager.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones stated that part of the reason Rangers chose to bring their former assistant back as manager was to give their big hitters a reason to stay, with both player’s contracts expiring soon.
Kent, 26, has scored 31 and assisted 53 in 196 appearances for the Gers, whilst Morelos has scored 115 and assisted 52 times in 243 appearances since his arrival in 2017.
The pair have been outstanding, particularly when they won a long-awaited league title under the management of Beale and Steven Gerrard, and although their futures are uncertain, Jones claims that the appointment of the Englishman as manager could help convince them to stay.
“I think this is part of the reason Rangers made the change of manager right now.
“They want to give their star players something to think about. They want to make sure that they’re able to try and achieve everything that the squad is capable of. That’s why Michael Beale has come in.
“It would be a big coup if he could convince one of those two to stay.”
TIF thoughts on Morelos and Kent…
Losing both star attackers would be incredibly damaging for Beale, as he may need to rely on both as proven goalscorers whilst he rebuilds the rest of the squad in his own desired way.
If both extend, they could go down as Rangers legends if they help bring more success to Ibrox after the historic 55th title.
Although Beale’s appointment may please them, having worked with him before, they may take some more convincing to remain at the club long-term if other offers come in, and securing their futures as soon as possible has to be a priority for the club.
It would be incredibly tough to replace either player, and if Beale is to stand any chance of success, he will need the backing of the club to help tie them down to new deals, whilst also strengthening in the transfer market.