Rangers are on the verge of signing Lechia Gdansk right back Mateusz Zukowski as a replacement for now-Everton defender Nathan Patterson.
Rangers sold Patterson to Everton earlier this month, leaving James Tavernier as their only recognised right back.
New signing James Sands can play there if needed, but is seen as more of a midfielder.
That means Rangers are now in the market for another right back, and seem to have picked out a player for the future.
Polish news outlet Meczyki report that Lechia Gdansk talent Zukowski is heading to Rangers, with the deal ‘on the home straight’.
It’s unclear just how much Rangers are paying, but it should be a fairly low fee with Zukowski out of contract at the end of the season.
That contract situation has been a real point of contention for Lechia. Zukowski was recently banished to the reserves because he wouldn’t sign a new deal.
Seemingly giving up hope of keeping him and simply wanting to sort out a transfer, Lechia made it clear that Zukowski wasn’t in first-team contention.
Zukowski, 20, was actually a striker or wide player in his formative years but has been converted into a right back.
Quick and strong at 6ft 1in tall, Zukowski has recorded two goals and one assist this season but has struggled a little defensively.
Rangers seemingly view Zukowski as a calculated punt; a talented young player who needs some coaching up and isn’t expensive.
That’s ultimately how Patterson was described at one stage, and there shouldn’t be immediate pressure on Zukowski to play.
With Tavernier now in his 30’s, Zukowski may be viewed as Rangers’ future first-choice right back.
There may not be much other business for Rangers on deadline day, with Zukowski potentially the only addition for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
