According to Dean Jones, Rangers may still gain from Kevin van Veen’s improved personal circumstances because he is now prepared to return to Scotland.
The TEAMtalk reporter acknowledged that the Dutchman’s scoring record in the SPFL would give him a “edge” over other targets, but he isn’t sure the Light Blues will make a move for the former Motherwell striker, GiveMeSport reported on January 5.
The 32-year-old, who left for Groningen in the summer, looks like he may be ready to return, as his first kid enters the picture at the same time as Philippe Clement is anticipated to want to buy a striker.
“It would be a big lift in terms of what you would be getting for the second half of the season,” Jones remarked. Simply said, I don’t think they’ll follow through on it.
“They have a slight advantage over other targets they might be considering at this time because of his recent 20 goals in the SPL and the evident grounds to believe that the links might work.
The most intriguing aspect of it, in my opinion, is that his circumstances appear to have altered. His personal life may indicate that he would be interested in returning to Scotland, which could work to Rangers’ advantage in this situation.
“I’m not sure that there’s a lot in it right now, but it’s definitely an interesting one to consider.”
Temporary
On paper, Rangers have a strong case to select Van Veen this month since there aren’t many accessible, reasonably priced players who have demonstrated their ability to score goals on a regular basis in the Scottish Premiership.
If a deal could be struck, Hearts skipper Lawrence Shankland would be the clear choice, as the Gers and the Scot both have interest in the player.
However, the Jambos present a very different scenario and might have easily priced him out of an Ibrox switch—at least for this window.
A reasonably cheap Van Veen deal might work unless Clement and his hiring team can find replacements elsewhere that can be brought in without going over budget.
It’s unclear, though, if Groningen would be open to it or if the forward’s advanced age renders it irrelevant.
If Rangers decide to look elsewhere, there is a clear risk that new hires may find it difficult to adjust, as was the case with Cyriel Dessers, Sam Lammers, and Danilo, who were all signed in the summer.
Additionally, a return along the same lines may very well win a title this season, so 25 league strikes for Motherwell last season certainly can’t be sneered at.
