In a Q and A by James Pearce in The Athletic (subscription needed), the reporter gave his opinion that Liverpool will prioritise a move to sign a backup for their left-back Andrew Robertson in the summer. This could potentially be good news for Rangers fans. Gerrard has usually managed to use his relationship with the Reds to bring in talented players for the Scottish giants. We expect the manager to look at a few more young options from Liverpool in the summer.
We believe that with Liverpool looking to sign a new left-back, the Bears should consider getting Yasser Larouci on loan in the summer from Anfield. The 19-year-old fullback has played for Liverpool in the Cup competitions where he has put in some decent displays for the runaway Premier League leaders.
Why should Rangers target a left-back?
Rangers will probably need to bring in a new left-back in the summer as the contracts of Jon Flanagan and Andy Halliday are set to expire in a few months. There is no reliable reporting yet on whether the Bears would hand them a new deal or not. As things stand, we believe that Gerrard would allow both Flanagan and Halliday to depart on a free transfer.
Hence, signing a new left-back would be imperative for the club. Given, Gerrard’s connection with Liverpool, the manager should try to bring in Larouci on loan as a backup for Borna Barisic.
What are Yasser Larouci’s qualities?
Larouci has impressed with his endeavour and work rate at left-back for Liverpool. The 19-year-old showcases good pace, which allows him to make searing runs from the left. He has played as a winger at the youth level so one can see him as an attack-minded fullback. The youngster might have to improve on his final product a bit, but the signs are there that he can play and thrive at the senior level.
Larouci is also a tough-tackling fullback as he is not afraid to go into challenges. The physicality of the Premiership would undoubtedly test him, but we believe that the defensive star can be a hit at Ibrox. If Liverpool are eyeing a new left-back in the summer, then Rangers should have a good chance of bringing in Larouci on loan for the season.
Barisic has been nothing short of a revelation for the Gers this season, and he has often emerged as the difference-maker in the attacking third. However, Rangers need to keep an eye on a backup option as Gerrard’s men will be expected to compete on all the fronts. Barisic is also likely to play the Euros for Croatia, so he might not be ready to play for Rangers at the start of their next season. Hence, a left-sided fullback is likely going to be a priority for Gerrard, and he should look to pull in a favour from his beloved club to bring in the talented Larouci.
