Despite a slow start in the summer window, it’s all Rangers right now in the rumour mill. They are keeping tabs on an array of names after roping in Tom Lawrence, Zak Lovelace and Antonio Colak, and according to the Daily Mail, they have now turned their attention to Bayern Munich’s Malik Tillman.
The 20-year-old midfield attacker joins the likes of Rabbi Matondo, Théo Bongonda and Angelo Fulgini among the reported targets. Although the USMNT international made seven first-team appearances last season, a move to Rangers can’t be ruled out given the player’s willingness to attain regular gametime. The youngster does not belong to Julian Nagelsmann’s immediate plans, and therefore, is open to exploring a new opportunity away from The Allianz Arena.
The Light Blues have suffered a major blow following Joe Aribo’s departure. The versatile Nigerian has left for Southampton and the Glasgow giants are on the hunt for someone with a similar profile to emulate the midfield ace in the long run.
Predominantly a box-to-box midfielder, Aribo flourished as a ‘number 10’ under Giovanni van Bronckhorst. He often slotted in as a wide attacker, whereas injuries to Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos forced the manager to deploy him as a makeshift ‘False 9’ on a few occasions including the Europa League and Scottish Cup finals.
Why Tillman Would Be A Statement Signing For Rangers
While it would be an uphill task to find an instant replacement for Aribo, Tillman’s traits could be nurtured going forward considering his adaptability in various roles. He has progressed through the youth ranks of Bayern before grabbing a place in their senior lineup, but the flexibility he offered all these years has enriched his profile enough to attract interest from the Europa League runners-up.
Apart from an attacking midfield spot, Tillman has proved his worth across the frontline while representing the Bavarians in the U17s and u19s. He has also shown his composure as a holding midfielder and the Gers’ Dutch boss would have the luxury to mould the starlet as per necessity in the long run.
In spite of representing Germany at the youth level, he switched his allegiance to the United States a couple of months ago. He has already appeared twice for the Stars and Stripes and a move to Glasgow would see him uniting with compatriot James Sands. The latter joined Rangers on an 18-month loan back in winter, but the management is willing to secure Tillman’s services on permanent terms.
