According to the Telegraph (as cited by the Daily Record), Rangers are keeping close tabs on young Colombian Santiago Moreno over a potential summer transfer. They, however, are not alone in the hunt as the likes of Leeds United and Southampton have also scouted the attacking ace in recent months.
The little-known winger is being compared with Sadio Mane for his pace, flair, swift footwork and tricky runs. Although he prefers to operate from the right, the 21-year-old is capable of featuring across the frontline. Moreno has also exhibited his potential as an attacking midfielder and the breakthrough season he enjoyed with América de Cali has attracted suitors.
6 goals and 4 assists in 23 appearances (stats via Transfermarket) depict his impact high up the pitch and the youngster is expected to flourish further in the coming days under a rigorous training schedule. Premier League has always been a dream destination for the South American, but the profile of Champions League football would be too alluring to turn down for the player in his first-ever European stint.
Rangers, meanwhile, are well-equipped in the attacking third with ample attacking options in their ranks. Ryan Kent and Scott Wright are there to feature from the left-hand flank, whereas both Ianis Hagi and Kemar Roofe have proved their worth down the right. Alfredo Morelos has been the prime ‘number 9’ ahead of Cedric Itten and Jermain Defoe. Also, Steven Gerrard has tied down Fashion Sakala on pre-contract terms following an exquisite campaign with Belgian Pro League club KV Oostende.
Why Rangers Might Require Attacking Reinforcements This Summer
Having said that, there might be a shake-up upfront amid interest in Morelos and Kent from a number of European clubs. Defoe’s contract is set to expire this month and there has been no update yet on a potential extension even though the veteran hitman wants to stay beyond the ongoing term. Champions League is a whole different ball game if compared to the Europa League and the gaffer, therefore, must work on upgrading the current set-up with quality additions.
Gerrard has been spot on with his transfer calls but, at the same time, failed on a few occasions since taking charge of the Glasgow giants. Eros Grezda has been a catastrophic inclusion, also none of Brandon Barker, Jordan Jones or Greg Stewart are likely to be retained next season. Rangers might get benefitted from the arrival of Santiago Moreno in terms of depth and unpredictability, however, they must explore other targets as well before making a bid for him.
