Borna Barisic has been nothing short of a revelation for Rangers this season. The Croatian fullback has made the left-back spot his own after a below-par first year at Ibrox. Reports had emerged that AS Roma are interested in getting him in the winter transfer period. Now another report from Sunday Post states that Roma are willing to dig deep to get their target this January.
Roma firmly interested in Barisic with cash to spare
Steven Gerrard also confirmed Roma’s interest not too long ago, and he indicated that the club had opened talks with Barisic for a new contract. However, Roma aren’t being deterred by that as they remain firmly interested in him. Reports mention that they could be willing to wait until the final days of the transfer window to lure him.
Apart from that, Roma are also interested in Elseid Hysaj of Napoli, who is being valued at £40m. Hence, it is expected that Roma will have money to spend in the January transfer window. Rangers brought Barisic for just £1.5m, and they stand to make a significant profit on him.
However, selling him in this window would likely derail Rangers’ title charge. The emergence of Barisic has allowed Rangers to be threatening from both the flanks as earlier their attacks were often built from the right given Tavernier’s attacking intent. Barisic’s crossing and his ability to read the game and defend has stood out. He has also improved on the physical aspect as he seems to be much stronger while going into challenges.
Croatian manager Zlatko Dalic has already indicated that Barisic will be his first choice left-back going into Euros which will be held later this year. From being benched by Andy Halliday and Jon Flanagan last season, Barisic has undoubtedly come a long way.
What kind of price tag might turn Rangers’ head?
Selling the left-back would be a big no-no in January, but Gerrard has always indicated that every player has his price. There is no price tag being mentioned at the moment, but we believe that anything around or above £15-18m could turn Rangers’ head. One couldn’t even blame Rangers if they agree to sell if such an offer comes in. However, the Sporting director Ross Wilson has maintained (STV) that the club is under no pressure to sell.
Hence, even if the offer is head-turning, Rangers should keep hold of the fullback. Moreover, an excellent Euro 2020 could attract more attention on Barisic in the future, and his price tag could rise further. Therefore Gerrard needs to keep hold of him even though Roma seem adamant about getting him in this window.
