According to the latest reports from Daily Star, reigning Premier League champions Manchester City are said to be leading the race to sign Hearts of Midlothian’s talented fullback Aaron Hickey. The 17-year-old made a breakthrough last season for the Jambos, and he has continued his impressive outing this season as well.
Just a few days back with the appointment of new sporting director Ross Wilson, it was said that Rangers would also target (The Scottish Sun) the youngster in the future. Wilson, who was previously working with Southampton, had a crucial role to play in Rangers’ interest for Hickey and he wanted Gerrard to join the race for his signature.
However, often with top talents, more than one club keep track of their progress, and Manchester City are said to be in the driver’s seat for the £2m man. Moreover, Hearts are also trying tooth and nail to tie down their young talent on a new deal. Manager Craig Levein said recently, ”I’m still working on it (new deal for Hickey). I want to just try to get it done with his dad and then I’ll talk about it.” The Scottish youngster’s current deal expires in 2021.
Why will he be a good signing for Rangers?
Hickey is a modern-day attack-minded fullback who is at ease with the ball at his feet, and he has the skill to carry the ball from the back. The 17-year-old had come up from Celtic’s academy and broke into the Hearts lineup when he was just 16. The fullback is versatile enough to play on either of the flanks. Along with that, he can easily feature in wide areas in midfield as well.
Rangers currently have Borna Barisic, Andy Halliday and Jon Flanagan as options at left-back. However, apart from Barisic, the other two are not natural in that position and Hickey might be a handy addition for the Gers. Moreover, given the way Rangers dominate most of their games, they would love to add an adventurous and attacking fullback to their squad.
Manchester City’s interest: A blow for Rangers?
Reports mention that Hickey might cost £2m and that might be a bit too much for the Gers to pay in January for a 17-year-old. On the other hand, that kind of transfer fee will be pocket change for Manchester City and Rangers will be easily outmuscled in the transfer market.
However, Rangers don’t desperately need to add at left-back for now given the way Barisic has performed this season. If Hickey goes on to become a world-beater in the future, then Rangers might regret missing on him now. However, at this point, we don’t think it would be too big a blow for Gerrard.
