Former Southampton recruitment chief Ross Wilson has emerged as Rangers’ new sporting director. According to the reports from the Scottish Sun, he will try to persuade Rangers to make a move for 17-year-old Hearts’ left-back Aaron Hickey. It is said that Wilson has been keeping track of the youngster since his time with Southampton and now he has recommended his name to Gerrard as well.
The fullback had a breakthrough season last campaign, and he is slowly establishing himself at the Tynecastle under Craig Levein. It is believed that English heavyweights Manchester City are also keeping track of his progress. The youngster broke into the team last season when he was just 16, and he earned significant plaudits for his performances.
Hickey has already made 12 appearances in all competitions this season, and he also has a goal to his name in the Premiership as he scored the winner in the dramatic Edinburgh Derby. The 17-year-old is known to be a versatile player as he can play anywhere across the back four.
However, he has been playing as a left-back at Hearts so far. The Jambos are keen to extend his contract further. The Scottish youngster’s current deal expires in 2021.
How can Celtic benefit amid Rangers interest for Hickey?
Hickey meanwhile has come up from Celtic’s academy, and he moved to Hearts just a year ago. It is reported that Celtic included a sell-on clause while parting ways with him. Therefore the Hoops will receive 30 percent of the price if Hearts can sell him in the future. Reports indicate that he could cost £2m in the transfer market right now.
Does Rangers need a left-back?
Borna Barisic seems to have finally arrived at Rangers as he has put in some influential performances in the past month or so. Before that, Gerrard was often relying on Jon Flanagan, who wasn’t a natural while going forward. Even Andy Halliday has been tried in that position as an alternative option. We think that the Gers could do with a new left-back who will add depth and competition for places.
Hickey is an attack-minded fullback so that should suit Gerrard and Rangers’ plan well and he will be an able deputy to Barisic for now. However, the talent which the 17-year old possesses, he can challenge the Croatian for a first-team spot once he settles in at Ibrox. The defender is definitely worth going after as his skills and versatility will make him a top option in a few years.
