If a report from The Herald is believed to be true, Rangers have received a boost in pursuit of Sam Lammers They have been chasing the Atalanta star for quite some time, but the talks have progressed in recent days over a potential £3m summer move. The Dutchman could become Michael Beale’s fourth signing following the arrival of Kieran Dowell, Dujon Sterling and Jack Butland on Bosman transfers.
Lammers had a disappointing Serie A season on loan with Empoli and Sampdoria. He only scored just once for the Florence-based outfit before the loan was terminated earlier this year. He joined the struggling Blucerchiati for the remainder of the 2022-23 campaign but failed to contribute to their survival battle. Sampdoria finished rock bottom in the Serie A standings and with one goal and one assist in 20 outings, the 26-year-old centre-forward failed miserably high up the pitch.
Lammers progressed through the academy ranks of PSV since leaving Willem II at the age of 13. Despite exhibiting his exquisite scoring traits while on loan at Heerenveen, the ‘number 9’ failed to cement his place in PSV’s senior setup.
Although he secured a promising €11m (including bonuses) transfer to Atalanta back in 2020, the struggle continued while spearheading the frontline. His loan stint with Eintracht Frankfurt did not work out either, as he remained an unused substitute against Rangers in last year’s final.
Why Rangers Must Rope In A New ‘Number 9’
In spite of a late revival under Michael Beale, the Light Blues had a dreadful 2022-23 campaign both in Europe and the domestic competitions. Moreover, Alfredo Morelos’ egress as a free agent has left a void in the attacking third. Antonio Colak has been a rare success among Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s summer signings, but the Gers must rope in someone to challenge, cover and complement the Croatian marksman.
Lammers is acknowledged for his work ethic and defensive contribution but, at the same time, has often been criticized for lack of finishing and link-up play. He tries to play his part in the build-ups, however, his weakness in terms of passing and holding the ball refrained him from flourishing since leaving Eredivisie. Beale should deploy him as a targetman – a role that might suit his game given the physical as well as aerial presence in and around the box.
Meanwhile, Rangers are also keeping close tabs on Cremonese striking ace Cyriel Dessers. It is to be seen now whether they snap up both to add depth up front.
