Reports from Marca this month had emerged that Rangers along with Celtic were in the race to sign Atletico Madrid’s rising star Rodrigo Riquelme. However, according to a recent report from Corriere Dello Sport as cited by Sport Witness, Celtic have already made a big offer for Riquelme. Meanwhile, there is no mention of Rangers’ interest anymore.
It is not yet clear what Rangers’ stance is or whether they have another plan up there sleeve to sign Riquelme. Celtic seem to be more adamant about getting him as they have already made a big offer and we are not even sure when the summer transfer window would begin.
Why should Rangers make an offer?
Riquelme is going to be available on a free transfer if Atletico Madrid fails to get him on a new contract. That would undoubtedly make him an exciting prospect as signing him would be relatively low risk. Maybe that’s why Celtic have come up with a big offer as the club don’t need to spend a transfer fee for him.
Given his talent, we believe that Rangers should also up their game to sign the Spanish youngster. Rangers would be aware of his abilities as the Gers youth side squared up against Atletico Madrid’s youth team in the UEFA Youth Cup this campaign. The Spanish outfit ran out 4-0 winners and 19-year-old Riquelme had a considerable role to play in that as he assisted in three goals.
Riquelme made his La Liga debut this season when he came on as a substitute against SD Eibar. The report from Marca mentioned that Riquelme is not keen about extending his contract with Atletico Madrid as he does not see a clear path towards first-team football. His 5-minute cameo against Eibar remains his only appearance in the La Liga this campaign.
Riquelme has been compared to Antoine Griezmann in terms of playing style. Primarily a left-winger, the Spaniard can play on the right flank or as a secondary striker as well. His standout assets are his pace and dribbling skills. Riquelme is also known for his impressive shooting from in and around the penalty box.
We don’t often see an upcoming Spanish youngster moving to Scotland. The Premiership will certainly test Riquelme’s strength and physicality. Rangers should look to lure the winger as he is going to be a very low-risk signing and if he realises his potential, then he can provide rich dividends to Gerrard’s team.
