GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JULY 18: A general view during the pre-season friendly match between Rangers and Newcastle at Ibrox Stadium on July 18, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
Rangers might lose out on millions following comments made by Cyriel Dessers live on Dutch television.
The Nigerian striker, who has been attracting interest from clubs in France, Spain, Greece, and Saudi Arabia [Chris Jack, 3 July], discussed his future in an interview with Ziggo Sport [13 July].
Dessers stated he wants to stay at Ibrox – an admission that will surely hamper the Gers’ plans to recoup the £4million they spent on him last summer and bring in a more proven goalscorer.
“I am very happy here, so I would like to stay,” Dessers said, all but ruling out any hope the Light Blues had of bringing in some extra millions to spend elsewhere.
Rangers should sign someone proven like Lawrence Shankland
The Hearts striker scored an impressive 31 goals last season and is admired by the Gers manager Philippe Clement.
Shankland’s familiarity with the Scottish Premiership and his consistent goal-scoring ability make him an ideal candidate to improve Rangers’ attacking options.
Unlike Dessers, Shankland wouldn’t need time to adapt to the league, allowing him to hit the ground running.
However, it seems Rangers aren’t currently all in for Shankland, possibly due to concerns about spending. This could be a costly mistake.
Investing in a proven striker like Shankland would likely yield better results than holding onto a player who has been inconsistent.
Moreover, with Dessers now keen to stay, Rangers might miss out on the opportunity to sell him for a significant fee and strengthen their squad with a reliable goalscorer.
The Gers should capitalise on the interest in Dessers and pursue a player like Shankland who has demonstrated his worth in the Scottish Premiership.
This move could ensure better performances on the pitch and a smarter use of their financial resources.
