According to the Daily Record, Rangers are eyeing a move for young Lokomotiva wonderkid Roko Simic. The 17-year-old has the blessings of former Gers’ hitman Nikica Jelavic who backed the teenager to be a ‘world-class striker’ in a recent interview (the Daily Record has reported).
“Roko is certainly one of the greatest talents in Croatian football! That’s for sure, he’s a young and decent guy, brilliantly brought up and he’s a real rough diamond. I am convinced that Roko will make a great career and that he will be a world-class striker, I really haven’t seen a more talented player than Roko for a long time.”
Said the 35-year-old who played with Simic this season before hanging his boots a couple of months ago.
Roko, son of legendary Croatian defender Dario Šimić, has already made 22 first-team appearances at such a tender age. He has found the net thrice in his breakthrough campaign and is being labelled as the ‘new Erling Haaland’ back in his homeland. Jelavic is confident of him scripting a success story at Ibrox alongside fellow countrymen Nikola Katic and Borna Barisic.
While the pressure would be immense because of his father’s stature, the youngster has exhibited enough confidence and composure to grab the attention of the Scottish champions. Although he might be handed a sporadic status initially, the attacking attribute of the Premiership side might suit his style of play while spearheading the Bears’ frontline.
Why Rangers Should Secure The Deal
Simic is a prolific ‘number 9’ with aerial as well as physical dominance inside the box. His link-up play, ability to drag the defenders and creating space as well as poaching traits should see him flourish further under Steven Gerrard’s tutelage. Champions League football is back in Govan after years of despair and the gaffer must focus on building a squad that would depict the amalgamation of experience and youthfulness for years to come.
Rangers are eyeing Roko Simic despite having the likes of Alfredo Morelos, Cedric Itten, Kemar Roofe and Jermain Defoe in their ranks. Defoe, however, is set to part ways this summer upon the expiration of his contract, but the parity would be restored by the Oostende sensation Fashion Sakala who has already been roped in on a four-year deal. Roofe is known for his flexibility high up the pitch and the addition of the Croat prodigy would only enrich the Glasgow giants in the forthcoming future.
