Yesterday reports came out that Rangers were close to sealing a deal for Motherwell’s winger Jake Hastie and the deal could be announced anytime this week. Now it seems that Rangers have secured the signature of another player as Birmingham City’s playmaker Greg Stewart is said to be close to agreeing on a deal (Daily Star) with the Glaswegian giants.
The 29-year-old who is currently on loan with Aberdeen has been linked with a move to Ibrox for the last few months, and it seems like Gerrard has managed to find success in negotiating a deal for him. Stewart’s contract with Birmingham City is set to expire in the next few months, so Rangers are getting their man on a free transfer.
Rangers ran Celtic close at one point in time, but Gerrard’s men lost their momentum after January and are now sitting 9 points behind Celtic in the Premiership table. There is no doubt that Gerrard has brought them close to challenging the Bhoys for the title, but a lot of work still needs to be done in terms of recruiting players for the key positions.
Why Rangers need a playmaker?
The Bears are packed with options in the midfield department. However, none of them can be classified as an outright playmaker or attacking midfielder. Scott Arfield has filled in that role for the most parts this season, but he has only played there because of his experience and ability to make runs into the box. The Canadian is definitely more suited to play in a box to box role, and it is no surprise that Rangers are looking to add a playmaker for the next season.
What will Stewart bring to the table?
The 29-year-old was in terrific form in the first half of the season when he was on loan with Kilmarnock. Stewart had managed eight goals, and seven assist in 16 appearances for them. The Scotsman in versatile enough to play in various roles in the attacking third but he is at his best in a secondary striker or no. 10 position. He has that extra bit of pace as well which allows him to be deployed as a winger when required.
Problems with Stewart?
The Stirling born player’s form has been inconsistent as he has failed to thrive at Aberdeen since January. Stewart has had other spells in the Premiership, and he has been inconsistent for most of his career. His work rate can also be questioned as he is sometimes seen ambling across the pitch. Rangers might think that on a free transfer they are getting a decent player. We would have wanted the Gers to aim a bit higher. It remains to be seen how Stewart would go about his business at Ibrox.
