Rangers beating English duo to complete this £3m deal would add some much-needed experience at the back

Rangers boss Steven Gerrard celebrates after the final whistle. (Getty Images)

Rangers opinion: Gers in for James Lawrence – Good move?

According to a report in Football Scotland, Scottish giants Rangers are interested in signing Anderlecht centre-back James Lawrence during this transfer window.

Gers manager Steven Gerrard is a big fan of the player (h/t Football Scotland), who was born in England but played for the Wales national team. He grew up in Holland and previously plied his trade for Ajax, Rotterdam and RKC.

Currently at Anderlecht, the 26-year-old’s position in the team is under threat, following the return of Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany as a player-cum-manager. (h/t Football Scotland)

As per the report (h/t Daily Record), Rangers are looking to make a £3m offer for him with competition from Championship sides Stoke and Swansea City.

Here’s why it is the right move for them ahead of a crucial next season:

Lawrence could fill in that inexperienced centre-back slot

Predominantly a centre-back who can play on either side, James Lawrence can operate at left-back or as a defensive midfielder, if the manager asks him to.

The Welsh international is a dominant player, who doesn’t mind duels with centre-forwards if he is playing in his original position. He reads the game well and does the defensive work with great application.

On the other hand, Rangers are in need of a centre-back after being left with two options in that position – Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic. While the former has been one of the key players since his arrival last summer, the latter is still learning his trade to nail his place down in the team.

So, it makes complete sense for Gerrard’s men to look to sign James Lawrence during this transfer window. Knowing that if the Gers are to challenge Celtic for the league title, they need better squad depth. Thus, this could be an important signing for them ahead of next season.

Conclusion

All in all, we can conclude that Rangers would really profit from having Lawrence in their squad this summer.

Mizgan Masani

A football enthusiast, who loves to analyse the game in depth. Following various leagues and knowing about the playing styles of different managers intrigues me to the core. Other than that, I am an Electronics Engineer! Follow me @mizgans