Steven Gerrard lays down condition for Rangers to sell Ibrox player ‘fans like’

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Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has told The Times that the Ibrox club will sell Borna Barisic only if they are paid a lot in transfer fees.

Gerrard has raved about the Croatia international left-back and has highlighted his importance in the Rangers team.

The Liverpool legend has made it clear that he does not want to lose the 27-year-old, as Rangers aim to win the Scottish Premiership title this season.

However, the former England international midfielder has suggested that if a club made a huge offer, then Rangers would think about it.

Earlier this month, Football Insider reported of interest in Barisic from Leeds United, while Herald Scotland has also stated that the former NK Osijek left-back has been linked with the Whites, AS Roma and Napoli.

Gerrard told The Times: “We’re not surprised if there is interest in Borna. He has been a consistent performer for us for some time now and has started the season brightly again. But he has signed a long-term deal here, everyone loves him, the fans like him and he was in the running for player of the year.

“Left-backs are difficult to get. It’s the reason why Arsenal paid so heavily for Kieran Tierney. It’s the reason why Jurgen Klopp has just had to spend £11 or £12 million for another left-back [Kostas Tsimikas] when he already has one [Andy Robertson] that’s worth whatever amount of money. They are difficult to get … and we own one.”

Gerrard added: “He’s staying here. He’s not for sale. If someone did come in, they would have to bring an awful lot of money with them.”

Staying at Rangers

Barisic has had injury problems during his time at Rangers, but the 27-year-old is a very good left-back who has established himself as a key figure in the team.

While a huge bid could be very tempting for the Gers, it is important that the Scottish Premiership club do not sell him, as it is going to be very tough for them to replace him.

Praise for Rangers duo

Meanwhile, Rangers manager Gerrard has praised the performances of goalkeeper McLaughlin and winger Ryan Kent so far this season.

Gerrard told The Scottish Sun about McLaughlin: “Jon has certainly taken his chance, and really it’s no surprise because we have tracked him for some time.

“He has experience, we knew he was a good goalie and that he’d proved himself at this level before. We always knew he’d be able to handle a big club too and he’s come in and been magnificent. He’s a leader, he’s vocal and been a good character around the place.”

The Rangers boss told The Daily Record about Kent: “We want Ryan to play with freedom and go and express himself. He is smiling, sharp, and enjoying his football and posting numbers in terms of goals and assists after the benefit of a full pre-season.”