Rangers are likely to be in the market for a new striker in January if Alfredo Morelos decides to leave Ibrox, and reports claim Morocco World Cup star Walid Cheddira could be available for just £4.4million – a no-brainer for Michael Beale.
Cheddira, 24, is in the form of his life. Having helped Bari gain promotion to Serie B last season, Italy’s second tier, he has gone on to score 14 goals and lay on five assists in 19 appearances. Unsurprisingly, this is attracting attention.
Indeed, Serie B News say his form has alerted those at Spurs. Gianluca Di Marzio, a well-renowned Italian journalist, says Nottingham Forest are also in the mix. Now, CM say Torino are also keen – and Bari want just £4.4million.
If Cheddira’s name was not household given his blistering form in the second division of Italian football – then his red card at the World Cup did. During Morocco’s 1-0 win over Portugal, he came off the bench, only to be sent off.
But his club form has been sensational. Serie B is still a decent standard and Rangers need a striker. One that can bring others into play, which Antonio Colak does not do – as well as score. Cheddira’s five assists prove he can do that.
£4.4million for Cheddira a no-brainer for Rangers and Beale
So, Colak is not creative enough – preferring to play on the last man. Alfredo Morelos is out of contract at the end of the season and continues to draw criticism – recently from Kris Boyd. Beale has said he would like to play two up top.
Bringing another body in that area, such as Cheddira, would make sense. While a move to Champions League side Spurs would be flattering, and Forest too given they look good to avoid relegation, Rangers should be interested.
He would give the Gers a top-quality option in attack and one that is only going to keep improving. His physicality is something that would fit in well in Scottish football. For such a bargain price, Rangers should rival Spurs and Forest.
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