Rangers midfielder Steven Davis has just capped off a fantastic year for club and country by lifting the Premiership title for the fourth time in his career – but Steven Gerrard must move to sign his long-term replacement this summer and free agent Ryan Gauld could be the ideal solution.
While Davis isn’t quite ready to hang his boots up just yet, the Northern Irish international has, likely, only a few seasons left before it his time to call it quits and take the next step in his career.
A move for Gauld, who was snubbed by Scotland boss Steve Clarke for Euro 2020, would come with little risk given the midfielder’s contract at Portuguese side Farense is about to come to an end.
The ex-Dundee United and Sporting Lisbon youngster has been in impressive form for the minnows, picking up Portugal’s Player of the Month last month and has racked up good numbers this term.
With nine goals and seven assists to his name from 34 appearances, Gauld would add much-needed depth to a Rangers midfield that was down to the bare bones in the final weeks of the season.
According to the Scottish Sun, there are as many as 30 clubs chasing the 25-year-old’s signature but the chance to return to Scotland and play for the Light Blues as they defend their Premiership title and try to reach the group stage of the Champions League will surely appeal.
His age would also appeal to Rangers with the Gers having to prospect of someone who can be a key player for a number of years to come as a number of key players in the Ibrox engine room move closer to the end than the beginning of their careers.
The playmaker is definitely someone Rangers can look to add more quality to the side as they gear up for a title defence and with no fee attached it would be a good move from a financial perspective too.
While Rangers fans would no doubt love to see Davis strut his stuff at Ibrox forever, making plans for his eventual retirement now makes much more sense until waiting until it becomes a necessity.
Gerrard and his recruitment staff may well have other target on their shortlist for the summer but they would be making a big mistake not to at least look at Gauld.
In other news, Rangers teen Euro 2020 spot hailed by former Scotland boss after wowing for Gers
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