The upcoming summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the most important in recent memory for Rangers. This already could be a window which makes or breaks Michael Beale’s spell at Rangers as we look to close the current gap on our rivals.
One of the biggest shake ups will be the players leaving upon their contract expiry, apparently no movements have been made on these contracts so all players are free to speak to other clubs. Time is running out on making the decision on who to keep and who to release, but who deserves to stay? The first team players in question are;
Allan McGregor
Scott Arfield
Steven Davis
Ryan Jack
Alfredo Morelos
Ryan Kent
Filip Helander
Let’s look at their chances of staying and whether they deserve a new contract or not.
Allan McGregor – Many fans will feel he probably should’ve retired last season as the Rangers icon has been well below his previous standards this season. Currently 7th in clean sheets in the SPFL and 2nd bottom in save percentage, only saving 56.4% of shots faced. A new deal seems unlikely and hopefully he decided to hang up his gloves before that conversation happens.
Scott Arfield – An effective contributor from the bench, he regularly pops up with important goals, like last seasons SC Semi-Final and the two goals in added time at Pittodrie. Minutes have been limited since Beale’s arrival so currently it’s up in the air whether a new contract will be offered. If Rangers are looking for a refresh he’s probably a player that should be released this summer.
Steven Davis – Really unfortunate his season has ended through injury but he should be another icon whose time at the club is up in the summer. A player who would be brilliant to have about the dressing room, if in a coaching capacity, but not a player who will probably touch the pitch for Rangers again.
Ryan Jack – Has been a key player in the middle of the pitch since Beale came in. He does the dirty work and keeps the play moving and ticking while allowing the more attacking midfielders to push up the pitch. Probably won’t be the starting No.6 next season but definitely deserves to stay based off of recent performances.
Alfredo Morelos – When fit and firing he’s one of the most crucial players in the team. Unfortunately that’s rarely been the case in recent times. A player Rangers have definitely gotten their money’s worth out of and will be remembered fondly, for the most part. Rumours of interest from other clubs has been circulating recently and it looks likely that he may leave. A situation that massively divides fan opinion, would you give him a new deal?
Ryan Kent – Rangers will struggle to find a player as technically gifted with the money available after having strengthened other positions. The numbers may not always match up but he’s the type of player capable of changing a game with a piece of magic, the type of player that doesn’t come around very often. Will the lack of goal scoring lead to Beale looking elsewhere? This is probably the most interesting and hard to predict contract situation currently.
Filip Helander – Potentially the best defender at the club when he’s fully fit. That’s the issue though, he’s barely been available over his time at Ibrox only making 60 appearances over three seasons. If fitness was guaranteed it would be a no brainer to sign him up but with these issues he’s a wage Rangers could afford to lose.
As previously stated, this summer will be incredibly interesting and fans are filled with a mixture of nerves and anticipation over any potential deals. Who would you give a contract to and who would you let walk away?