Reported Rangers target Gareth McAuley is exactly what Celtic need

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West Bromwich Albion’s Gareth McAuley is reportedly heading to Scotland with Rangers, but why haven’t Premiership rivals Celtic made a move?

Gareth McAuley certainly seems to be more Clint Hill than Bruno Alves.

The Daily Record report that Rangers are keen to sign a defender in his late thirties for the third summer in a row. But unlike the high-earning Portuguese veteran Alves, McAuley already has the makings of a fine addition despite being one year older at 38.

McAuley barely featured as West Brom finished bottom of the Premier League last season and it is understood that he is keen on a move to Ibrox, having talked to Rangers’ director of football Mark Allen.

But why are Rangers the only Old Firm outfit making a move for the 80-capped Northern Irishman? Celtic, after all, are in need of new centre-back options, too, and McAuley would give Brendan Rodgers’ side some much needed leadership and reliability in defence after some rather slack performances in 2018.

McAuley would be everything Celtic wanted the seldom seen Marvin Compper to be. He would provide great strength in depth while potentially acting as a mentor to the promising but young Jack Hendry (below) and Jozo Simunovic.

And, for all those who say he is past it, remember McAuley started 36 Premier League games and scored six goals as West Brom finished in the top half in 2016/17. It was only after they dropped him that things started to go wrong.

With McAuley’s contract due to expire, McAuley is a no brainer for Rangers. But will Celtic regret not throwing their hat into the ring?