Rangers signing this 38-year-old free agent could be a massive step in the right direction

Why Rangers must beat their rivals to sign Gareth McAuley on a free transfer

According to a report by the Scottish Sun, Rangers are interested in signing Gareth McAuley. The 38-year-old was recently released by West Bromwich Albion and is a free agent right now.

A centre-back by trade, McAuley would bring in an abundance of experience and solidity at the back. In fact, he could also play the role of a much-needed leader at the heart of the defence. With that in mind, it does make sense for Rangers to sign him.

However, the report further states that the likes of Aberdeen and Heart of Midlothian are also interested in acquiring his services. But considering what McAuley would bring to the fore, Rangers must go all out to beat the competition and sign him for free.

With Steven Gerrard at the helm, the Gers have gotten off to a good start in the new season so far. In fact, they have collected a total of 4 points from their 2 games in the Scottish Premiership.

Mounting a challenge to end bitter rivals Celtic’s dominance in Scotland will not be easy but Gerrard has certainly taken all the steps in the right direction. He brought in numerous new players in the summer window but signing a player like McAuley would not only boost squad depth but also help the dressing room.

The Gers signed Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic in the recently concluded window but signing McAuley would be a shrewd piece of business as well.

McAuley has been a fantastic performer for West Brom over the years. One might argue that he is quite old to start regularly but that should hardly be a matter of concern. In the 2016/17 season, McAuley started 36 games for the Baggies, scoring 6 goals.

If he joins Rangers, he would definitely play on a regular basis. But against certain teams and in certain situations, the veteran defender could prove to be an excellent choice while also mentoring the likes of Katic and Goldson.

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Thus, Gerrard must not waste time in wrapping up a move as soon as possible. Clubs will never stop circling for a player of McAuley’s calibre and hence, Rangers must go all out and beat the competition to sign him for free.