Rangers are reportedly plotting a move for former England defender Gary Cahill, as the Ibrox side look to solve their current defensive woes.
What’s the word?
That’s according to journalist Owen O’Brien, who revealed on Twitter: “EXCL: Understand Coventry City are among a number of Championship clubs interested in signing free agent, Gary Cahill – Rangers also interested. 36yo already been in contact with clubs.”
In his attached piece, the transfer insider suggests that the Old Firm are potentially keen on a move for the veteran centre-back, so long as the 36-year-old’s ‘terms are reasonable’.
The 61-cap colossus is currently a free agent after having left Bournemouth at the end of last season, having racked up 22 appearances for the Cherries in the Championship in his solitary season at the Vitality Stadium.
Sands upgrade
The Glasgow side are seemingly in need of defensive reinforcements following what’s been a miserable last few weeks for manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, with the Dutchman having seen his side ship 11 goals in their past three games across all competitions.
The Scottish Premiership outfit’s latest defeat saw them concede three at home to high-flying Serie A side, Napoli, albeit with the momentum of the game having undoubtedly shifted following the dismissal of young James Sands early in the second half.
Although the jury is out on whether or not the 22-year-old made contact with the ball in that last-ditch tackle, that red card seemingly epitomised what has been a torrid last few games for the United States international, having looked somewhat uncomfortable at the heart of the backline.
Pundit Mark Hateley had previously suggested that the on-loan midfielder could well be something of a “problem” in a centre-back berth, with that statement perhaps proving correct after what has been a dismal string of performances.
Would Cahill be a good signing for Rangers?
Yes!
No, not convinced
Run ragged by Celtic’s fluid forward line in the Old Firm derby drubbing and at the centre of criticism following the 4-0 defeat to Ajax last week after allowing Edson Alvarez to header home freely earlier on, the seven-cap dud appears unsuited to life in the centre of the defence.
Although Cahill may not be the most glamorous replacement due to his veteran status, sporting director Ross Wilson arguably won’t find a better short-term fit than the one-time Chelsea man, with the 6 -foot-4 menace a vastly experienced and reliable asset.
The ageing ace has racked up a staggering haul of 585 appearances in his club career to date, notably featuring 290 times during a glittering spell at Stamford Bridge, where he also proved himself a real threat in an attacking sense after registering 25 goals across all fronts.
Dubbed a “leader” by journalist Henry Winter, Cahill would offer a calming presence in the backline for the Gers amid their current struggles, with it potentially worth the gamble for Wilson to hand him a deal until January, at least.
The former Crystal Palace titan proved his quality during his stint in England’s second tier last term, averaging 4.3 clearances and 1.2 interceptions in the league, with young Sands having only averaged 1.8 clearances and 0.2 interceptions from his five league games thus far this season.
The Champions League winner would seemingly be an upgrade on the American both in terms of quality and experience, with Van Bronckhorst no doubt needing to do something to alter the recent slump.
