The Rangers fans in the Transfer Tavern would love to see West Brom’s veteran centre-back, Gareth McAuley this summer. The defender would bring an experienced head to help with the development of new signings, Nikola Katic and Conor Goldson and he’d come on the cheap.
McAuley played less of a role last season for West Brom in their relegation season, with Jonny Evans and Ahmed Hegazi often picked over the veteran Northern Irish central defender. However, with the current state of affairs at Ibrox, an old head in defence would be good to bring in for the younger options that Steven Gerrard has at the moment.
Whilst this is the case, the fans would have to take some things into consideration with McAuley. The player’s wages could be an issue but at the age of 38, he probably won’t be looking for a big payday as much as he’ll just be keen to have one more season at the top. The centre-back will be without a club on July 1st when his contract expires and Rangers won’t be the only club interested though, so if they are to move for McAuley then they’ll have to move fast.
You can read our local Gers’ verdict on McAuley here:
https://twitter.com/lamrock52/status/1011005948780056576
Imo mcauley be a class signing for experience… but Bruno and cardoso will and have to leave …. #Rangers
— Craig Houston (@craigieh86) 24 June 2018
Seeing a lot of rumours that’s McAuley is on his way to rangers for talks. A lot of people worried due to his age but I think he will prove people wrong if he signs. He is extremely fit and physically commanding and very dangerous from set plays. I think he would be a good backup
— Nathan Bennett (@n_bennett91) June 24, 2018
Anyone heard anything about Gareth McAuley flying into the Rangers pre-season training in Spain this afternoon? Asking for a friend.
— Colin Armstrong (@moonman1873) June 24, 2018
it'll be one of the better signings……. he'll be on the rangers or Albion coaching staff after a season or 2. also might help an Albion/rangers match for bruntys testemonial
— Gilb (@wba_gilb) June 24, 2018
Cardoso is away for sure so we need a 3rd possibly 4th CH anyway
— Andrew Ferguson (@Fergie_78) June 25, 2018
— Alan Burgess (@alanburgess87) 24 June 2018
As you can see, the Bluenoses seem keen to get this one over the line as McAuley would bring experience and quality to a young Rangers team.
