Rangers are actively exploring the January transfer market to bolster their defensive ranks, having faced a spate of injuries that's left manager Philippe Clement short on choices. Key players like John Souttar, Neraysho Kasanwirjo, Leon Balogun, James Tavernier, and now Dujon Sterling have all been sidelined.
In this light, reports suggest that Man Utd veteran Jonny Evans was proposed as a reinforcement by someone within the Rangers board. However, there could be some hesitation from Clement to move forward given Evans' senior status and his preference for younger defenders; Leon Balogun already serves as the experienced figure in the squad, reports the Daily Record.
Adding interest to the speculation is the mention of Nikola Katic. His time with Rangers was marred by injuries, but Craig Moore—a former Ibrox stalwart turned agent—suggests Katic could be the right fit.
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Speaking to Go Radio, Moore said: "Interesting one. Central defender who I think Rangers need and a player that has crossed our desks in the last days is [Nikola] Katic, a former Rangers player.
"Obviously was very, very solid at the club and unfortunately picked up an ACL injury and then ended up in Croatia and all that sort of stuff to get his fitness. How Rangers supporters would feel towards a player like Katic, I think it is important that whatever player - if Rangers do look to bring in a central defender - needs to hit the ground running.
"There is no time transition of three or four months. It is now. You've got to deliver now. He would be a player that would certainly fit that profile. Ryan Porteous' future at Watford seems to be in doubt, with reports from the continent suggesting he's unhappy at Vicarage Road. Despite not being the most popular figure amongst the Light Blues faithful during his time at Hibs, the Scotland star has been linked and Moore can see some benefits.
He added: "He knows the domestic game inside out. If he is not playing at Watford. Look, those type of players are certainly one to consider for me. If they are not getting game time down south. Not a bad option at all. We know he would be absolutely fine up here."
"He's not going to run into anything that he isn't aware of. He's seen it and experienced it. Naturally left-sided I am sure and quite physical. He will be one of a few options I am pretty sure Rangers will be looking at."
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