James Tavernier has been a crucial player in Gerrard’s set up, and there is no doubt that he would continue to remain so as the season goes by. The Englishman’s attacking outlet down the right makes him a standout option, and with Tierney now gone from Celtic, many would agree that the Rangers captain is the best fullback in the division.
However, that also means that Gerrard needs to be prepared for a contingency plan as Tavernier has attracted interest from bigger leagues. The defender was linked with a move to Newcastle United in the ongoing window, but nothing transpired, and the English window is now shut.
However, Gerrard has already got an eye on his replacement as Leonel Di Placido is being considered (The Scottish Sun) as a possible alternative to Tavernier. The report mentions that Rangers could look to make a move for the Argentine fullback in January if Tavernier departs.
Gerrard has always maintained that all his players are for sale so a top offer from an English club could possibly do the trick. However, Rangers are likely to compete against Celtic on all fronts this season and Tavernier has claimed earlier that he wants to win trophies as a captain with Rangers. Nevertheless, it is only right for Rangers to keep an eye on a possible replacement and Di Placido has emerged as a candidate.
Right choice from Gerrard to replace Tavernier?
Di Placido currently plies his trade for Lanus in the Argentine top-flight football. Reports mention that the 25-year-old is open to a move to Europe in a bid to establish himself in the national team. The defender is currently in the final year of his contract so January will be the last month when the Argentine club can gain money for him by selling the defender.
The Argentine is known to be an attack-minded fullback with his pace and acceleration on the ball being his standout asset. The defender has even earned a national team call up which came a year ago as he was picked in the squad to play against Guatemala and Colombia in a friendly. However, he is yet to make an appearance for the Albicelestes.
He hasn’t been tested outside of Argentina, but he has the attributes necessary to replace Tavernier. It is no surprise that Rangers are looking for an equally attack-minded fullback to fill in Tavernier’s shoes. However, Gerrard would be keen to keep hold of his captain in January and will hope that he needs to go after Di Placido only as a last resort.
