If a report from The Express is believed to be true, Newcastle United remain keen on Rangers striking sensation Alfredo Morelos over a potential January transfer. The successful Saudi-led takeover might see a change of fortune at St James’ Park and the Magpies, struggling for survival, are likely to have a busy winter in terms of arrivals.
The Gers, on the other hand, are leading the Premiership standings ahead of hosting second-placed Hearts on Saturday afternoon. However, they are yet to exhibit their form of the title-winning 2020-21 campaign and manager Steven Gerrard has been fortunate to grind out results, thanks to the sheer expertise of his key personnel. Morelos is indeed one of the integral figures who scored the decisive late winner against ten-man Hibernian prior to the international break.
The Colombian joined the Light Blues during Pedro Caixinha’s stint back in the summer of 2017. The former HJK centre-forward was an instant hit at Ibrox banking on his poaching trait and a great sense of positioning inside the box. His game evolved over the years as he developed his maturity, improved disciplinary records and showcased a high work ethic under Gerrard. Morelos is way more than just another goalscorer in the current Rangers side and his egress would be a significant loss for the reigning Scottish champions.
Why Rangers Would Suffer A Huge Mid-season Blow If Morelos Departs
Morelos, meanwhile, has expressed his desire to experience a fresh challenge elsewhere on a number of occasions. A move to Porto did not materialize this summer, but the 25-year-old would keep on drawing the attention of European hotshots given his prolific scoring attribute. 99 goals and 45 assists in 196 appearances depict his mastery in Rangers colours and the interest from Newcastle make absolute sense considering their lack of firepower in the attacking third.
Neither Joelinton nor Dwight Gayle has done enough to spearhead the Magpies attack. Steve Bruce is forced to deploy Allan Saint-Maximin as a makeshift centre-forward due to the persistent injury problems of hitman Callum Wilson. Anthony Martial and Luka Jovic are the other big names the club are keeping close eyes on, but a deal for Morelos would be much easier to pursue compared to the other targets in the immediate future.
Rangers have Kemar Roofe, Fashion Sakala and Jermain Defoe as the other outright ‘number 9’ options. Roofe, in particular, has shown great instinct in front of goal, however, his fitness woes might refrain him from featuring twice a week amid fixture congestion. Defoe is in his final months of an illustrious career, whereas Sakala has not done enough yet to cement a starting status. It would be a massive blow for the Ibrox giants if the Cafeteros international plies his trade at Tyneside this winter.
