Rangers are being linked with a couple of midfielders, and one of their January targets is now available for absolutely nothing.
Goal claim that Rangers want Liverpool’s Pedro Chirivella, whilst The Scottish Sun state that Steven Gerrard is keen to bring in Aberdeen’s Lewis Ferguson.
Yet one name to keep an eye on is Feyenoord’s Renato Tapia. Voetbal International – one of the leading sources in Dutch football – reported in January that both Rangers and Celtic wanted Tapia.
Tapia, 24, failed to earn a January move in the end. He has played out the remainder of the season with Feyenoord, but is now on the move.
Algemeen Dagblad now report that Tapia has confirmed his exit on Instagram. Whilst speaking to journalist Cesar Vivar back home in Peru, the midfielder admitted that Feyenoord won’t renew his deal and he will move on.
Tapia’s contract ends this summer, meaning he is free to go. He added that Cruz Azul and Boca Juniors have wanted him, but could Celtic or Rangers rejoin the race?
Tapia is big and strong, capable of protecting the back four or even playing at centre back. That kind of versatility has helped Nir Bitton at Celtic, and with Scott Brown getting up in age, Tapia can offer another physical option in midfield.
Rangers seem to want another midfielder, and Tapia – much like Chirivella – could be a bargain on a free. He’s played against the Gers this season, and provides international experience that Rangers may find appealing.
With Tapia admitting he’s now available, Celtic and Rangers should be looking at him again. After those January links, surely they’re aware of Tapia announcing his exit.
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