Glasgow Rangers will be well aware they will need to find a suitable replacement for Steven Davis in the not too distant future.
What’s the word?
Ross Wilson brought in Bongani Zungu from French Ligue 2 side Amiens on an initial loan deal with the option-to-buy but the Bafana-Bafana midfielder has arguably done very little to justify an extension to his stay at Ibrox thus far.
It seems Steven Gerrard is in agreement, as Rangers have reportedly turned their attentions elsewhere instead.
According to Football Insider, Sheffield United midfielder John Lundstram is still of interest to the Light Blues, and Chris Wilder has recently admitted defeat.
The Blades boss said: “Him [Lundstram] and his agent have made a decision that he doesn’t want to sign.”
It’s claimed clubs south of the border, including Premier League duo Burnley and Crystal Palace, are also keen to secure his signature in January.
Lundstram has impressed for the south Yorkshire outfit especially over the past couple of years, providing eight goals and assists in 100 appearances across all competitions, via Transfermarkt.
Ideal Steven Davis alternative
Although his form has somewhat tailed off this season, having been sent off against Brighton following a challenge on Joel Veltman, there’s no denying the fact that Lundstram could be a significant coup for the Gers.
It’s an open secret the Ibrox boss has wanted a genuine box-to-box midfielder for some time now, which is why he tried to sign Preston North End playmaker Daniel Johnson in the summer, but to no avail.
Given his age, it’s safe to say that Davis isn’t getting any younger, and coupled with the fact his current deal is set to expire at the end of this season, it’s surely only a matter of time before he decides to hang up his boots for good.
Former Aston Villa and England striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has insisted Lundstram, who reportedly earns around £4,000-per-week at Bramall Lane, would seize the chance to move to Ibrox in a heartbeat.
He told Football Insider: “I think so. He’s a quality player.
“I’ve heard he’s not agreed a contract, maybe that’s wages they can’t agree. If Rangers can pay the money that he wants then maybe it suits him.
“I’m sure if anybody’s got a chance to leave Sheffield United at the moment, the way they’re playing, I’m sure they would.
“Rangers are a massive club that I’m sure he would love to go and play for.”
Rather than signing Zungu on a permanent basis, Rangers chief Ross Wilson may be better served sanctioning a move for Lundstram, as not only would he be able to provide suitable backup for the Northern Irish veteran stalwart, but he’d also be a significant upgrade on the South Africa international as well.
His high levels of concentration and ability to spray passes over the top would make him the perfect fit for the Govan-based Glaswegian giants, whilst signing a midfielder capable of covering and competing for a place in the starting line-up with Davis would be an extremely smart bit of business.
Should Davis depart Ibrox, Gerrard would have a ready-made replacement waiting in the wings if Wilson can get a deal over the line.
AND in other news, Glasgow Rangers dealt cruel blow before Celtic clash after Ryan Jack ruled out due to injury…