Rangers had reportedly made Kemar Roofe their priority signing if they went on to lose Alfredo Morelos in this transfer window. More fire was added when BBC broadcaster Adam Pope reported that there are some truth to the rumours regarding Rangers’ interest in Leeds United star.
However, recently, he went on to reveal that the deal is not happening as the Gers were in contact with someone else purporting to be representing Roofe. Therefore no talks have been made by Rangers yet for the English forward.
Not happening. Appears approach & dialogue with Rangers was made by an agent purporting to be representing Roofe. Consequently, no offer or bid received.
— Adam Pope (@apopey) July 12, 2019
Can Rangers beat the new competition for Roofe?
The striker’s future is still uncertain as Roofe has entered the final year of his contract with the Yorkshire outfit. Recently Sky Sports reported that Crystal Palace and Brighton have also joined the race to sign the 26-year-old. With Premier League clubs now showing concrete interest, we think that the Bears might find it hard to lure the Leeds United striker.
However, one cannot count out the fact that an icon like Steven Gerrard is the manager at Ibrox. Joe Aribo who was wanted by some top Premier League clubs, went on to choose Rangers as he wanted to play under Gerrard. Therefore Rangers will continue to be in the race. Once they qualify for the main draws of the Europa League, even that is something which might help the Gers beat competition from Premier League clubs.
Rangers are only going to go after Roofe if they go on to sell Morelos and Gerrard has said that only a significant offer will make him think about selling his 30 goal man from last season. The manager has also admitted that no offer has come his way for the Colombian striker.
Will Roofe be an able replacement for Morelos?
The English striker was Leeds United’s top scorer from the last season as they came close to moving up to the Premier League by finishing third in the table. The forward is known for his impressive pace and work rate. His sharp and intelligent movement in the attacking third will make it tough for the defenders to keep track of him. Roofe is also known for his high intensity pressing from the top, and he will usually work his socks off when on the pitch.
We think the Englishman has the potential to be a worthy replacement for someone like Morelos. We will probably have to wait and see what transpires in this transfer window as Rangers’ interest on Roofe will only have real legs when the Gers go on to sell Morelos in the first place.