Rangers are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Burnley midfielder Scott Arfield.
Sky Sports claim Burnley midfielder Scott Arfield is closing in on a move to Scottish giants Rangers, as he enters the final months of his contract at Turf Moor.
But does luring the winger to Ibrox suggest that the Gers are planning for life without on-loan Brighton winger Jamie Murphy?
The Gers are believed to be nearing a deal that will see the 29-year-old Arfield move north of the border on a free transfer, with the Canada international’s current contract set to expire on June 30.
Since the signing of Aaron Lennon at Burnley, Arfield has plummeted down the pecking order and a long-term calf strain has hindered his chances of both first-team football under Sean Dyche, and earning a new deal.
The former Huddersfield Town star boasts huge experience in the top tier of English football, as well as the Scottish Premiership after 108 top-flight appearances with Falkirk.
Boasting more than enough quality to star in the Scottish Premiership, Arfield would become a first-team regular in the Rangers side in his preferred position of left wing – meaning Jamie Murphy would have to drop out of the side.
Only on loan from Brighton, 28-year-old Murphy has impressed since his move north of the border, scoring five goals and turning provider on a further eight occasions this season.
Murphy was quoted by the Scottish Sun as saying that he’s keen to join Rangers permanently with talks between the two clubs ongoing, but if the Gers sign Arfield, surely they are planning on life without Murphy?
Murphy would command a transfer fee, with a year still left to run on his current deal at the Amex Stadium, and signing Arfield on a free instead may convince the Gers board to forget about landing Murphy in favour of Arfield.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
