Rangers manager Steven Gerrard is scouting the Toulon Tournament and should be hoping that Chelsea defender Jake Clarke-Salter gets his chance.
It does not take a genius to work out that Steven Gerrard wants a new centre-back at Rangers.
Since he was appointed as the club’s new manager, the Ibrox giants have been linked with Kyle Bartley, Martin Skrtel and Reece Burke, while the Herald Scotland reports that they will make a third bid for Brighton’s Connor Goldson.
But with Gerrard running the rule over potential bargain signings at the prestigious Toulon youth tournament in France, there are a couple of exciting defensive talents that could catch his eye – including England’s Jake Clarke-Salter.
The 20-year-old Chelsea defender has not featured yet in the U21 competition with England beating China and drawing with Mexico. But Gerrard should be hoping he features in the final group stage match against Qatar because Clarke-Salter could be ideal for Rangers.
Unlike Bartley, Skrtel and Goldson – who would command substantial fees – the former Bristol Rovers youngster is highly-rated at Stamford Bridge so could be allowed to leave on loan for the season.
Old Firm rivals Celtic have taken full advantage of Premier League club’s need to get their youngsters more game-time, with Patrick Roberts for instance thriving in Scotland, so Rangers should consider doing the same.
Yes, Clarke-Salter endured a dreadful spell at Sunderland in the second half of last season, being sent off twice in 11 appearances, but that was not the right environment for a young player to develop.
Clarke-Salter is a big talent and a defender John Terry admits ‘reminds me of myself’ so Rangers should move before someone else does.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
