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Should Rangers target Michael Kightly following Burnley release?

General view of Ibrox - Rangers (Reuters)
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Burnley have released Michael Kightly, so perhaps Glasgow Rangers should consider trying to bring him to Ibrox this summer.

Michael Kightly of Burnley (L) and Aidan White of Leeds United in actionMichael Kightly has been released by Burnley after four years on their books

Sky Sports have reported that along with former Rangers midfielder Joey Barton, Michael Kightly has been released by Burnley as they prepare for their second consecutive season in the Premier League.

And while Barton’s Ibrox spell is best forgotten, the Gers would perhaps be wise to consider trying to target Kightly in the coming months as he arguably showed during the latter half of this season that he can still make an impact at the higher levels.

Huddersfield Town's Rajiv van La Parra and Burton Albion's Michael KightlyKightly was excellent during his loan spell with Burton

The winger struggled for chances at Turf Moor, but was incredibly impressive during a loan spell with Burton Albion in the Championship, scoring four times in the second tier to help the Brewers maintain their status at that level despite being expected to struggle.

Should Rangers be working with a limited budget this summer, Kightly would arguably be an excellent addition as he would not only bring a decent level of quality to the Ibrox side, but the 31-year-old also boasts plenty of versatility given his ability to play in most positions higher up the pitch.

Rangers manager Pedro Caixinha before the matchRangers manager Pedro Caixinha may need to be savvy in the market this summer

While his spell at Burton means that it would hardly be a surprise if Kightly has a number of offers to choose from this summer, the chance to play for a club of Rangers’ stature – and potentially help them navigate their way through the Europa League – may well appeal to the wide-man just as it did for Barton one year ago when he swapped Burnley for a move to Scotland.

And although Kightly’s arrival may not be the marquee deal that the Ibrox faithful may be hoping for, on a free transfer, he would arguably be an excellent addition to provide some much-needed quality and depth to the squad.

General view of Ibrox - Rangers