According to the latest report from the Scottish Sun, Rangers have kept Leeds United’s striker Kemar Roofe on top of their list for potential replacements if they part ways with Alfredo Morelos this summer. The English striker was the top scorer for Leeds last season as they narrowly missed out on promotion even though they were placed in the automatic promotion spots for most of the previous campaign.
Roofe has already entered the final year of his contract, and the Whites want to get him on a long term deal. However, the Whites fear losing him for free next summer, and they have slapped a £5m price tag on the striker.
Rangers are unlikely to spend that much on a forward until and unless they get the cash from Morelos’ sale. The Gers also have Jermain Defoe at their disposal who can lead the line.
What can Roofe bring at Ibrox and is he good enough to replace Morelos?
The 26-year-old found the back of the net 14 times last season. Roofe started as a right winger, but he has been equally effective while playing up front. The forward showcases sharp movement and impressive work rate up front. He can link up play well with his team-mates, and he will also bring in that intensity which Morelos brought at Ibrox.
His pace and close quarter control are also worth mentioning. The forward is a decent scorer in front of goal, but there is definite room for improvement in his finishing skills. However, we think that Roofe will be a top replacement for someone like Morelos and he should suit Gerrard’s plans well. Moreover, his versatility to play as a no. 10 or a right winger will also come in handy for the manager.
Can Rangers sign him?
Roofe is a crucial player for the Whites and Rangers’ chance could depend on whether the Englishman decides to commit his long term future at Elland Road. Moreover, some English clubs might be after him as well as he is a proven player at the Championship level and there was even interest for him from the Premier League club Newcastle United in the January transfer period.
Rangers can only afford his transfer fee and wages if they sell Morelos for big money. The £5m price seems more than reasonable and the Bears can get a non-volatile version of Morelos in the form of Roofe. It remains to be seen now whether the English club can tie him down to a new deal or not.
