Greg Docherty is reportedly nearing a loan from move Rangers to Sunderland.
Rangers midfielder Greg Docherty has been told by Steven Gerrard that he can leave Ibrox this summer on loan, with Sunderland reportedly keen on the ex-Hamilton star – and that could serve as good news for Jamie Barjonas.
The Scottish Sun claim Jack Ross’ Sunderland have targeted Docherty as a possible recruit from Rangers this summer, and the Black Cats are leading the race to sign the 21-year-old.
The report states that due to Sunderland’s stature, they will win the race for the Scotland Under-21 international with only other English League One clubs interested in nabbing Graeme Murty’s January signing.
The Gers boast a whole load of central midfielders, especially after luring Lassana Coulibaly, Ovie Ejaria and Scott Arfield to Ibrox.
Jordan Rossiter, Ryan Jack, Graham Dorrans, Ross McCrorie, Andy Halliday and even Daniel Candeias are vying for a place in the middle of the park – Candeias lining up in a midfield three during the last two outings.
Docherty, then, looks set to leave on loan after being left on the bench for the last two matches, and now faces the added competition of Coulibaly. But does his exit give Barjonas a reprieve after loan reports?
The Scottish Sun had previously claimed that Gerrard was willing to let Barjonas leave on loan, with the Gers academy product being in a similar position to Docherty. But with the latter edging closer to a move, Gerrard may opt to keep Barjonas.
Leeds-born Barjonas is still only 19 and is still progressing in the Gers’ reserve side, and does not need first-team football to further his development. But he has made nine senior appearances and can act as back-up if required.
Allowing Docherty to go on loan keeping Barjonas is Gerrard’s best way of keeping everyone happy.
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