Scottish giants Rangers FC are plotting a summer loan swoop for Liverpool prodigy Ryan Kent, as per reports from the Sun (h/t Bristol Post).
Having appointed Liverpool legend Gerrard as their manager, the Gers have been linked with a number of Reds’ young players in recent weeks, with the name of Ben Woodburn also doing the rounds.
Kent too is understood to be on the radar of Gerrard, as he looks to guide the Light Blues forward after a disappointing campaign.
Ryan Kent is a bright, young player who is held in the highest of regards in and around Anfield since his academy days. The 21-year-old made his senior bow for the Merseysiders in January 2016 in a 2-2 draw against Exeter City in the FA Cup and that remains his sole appearance till date for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Kent spent the 2016/17 season away on loan with EFL Championship side Barnsley, where he had a decent spell, scoring and assisting 3 goals each in 44 league games. The attacker was sent to German club Freiburg on a short-term deal last summer but was recalled in January as he hardly got enough game time.
Having returned from Germany after just six appearances in which he failed to score or assist, Kent joined Championship side Bristol City in another loan move until the end of the campaign. However, things did not go all that well for the Englishman at the Ashton Gate, as he made just 11 appearances for Lee Johnson’s side, managing just two assists in the process.
While it has been a difficult season on the field for the youngster, it is no secret that he is an extremely talented player with brimming potential.
Capable of playing anywhere in the attack, the former England youth international is known for the natural flair he brings to the table with his exceptional dribbling abilities at speed, with which he can give most defenders a run for their money. To add to that, his hard-working attitude off the ball and the defensive work-rate mean he would help out his team at both ends.
This is something that Gers gaffer Gerrard will be definitely aware of, having seen Kent come through the ranks at the club.
It is natural for any young player to go through ups and downs at the start of his career and Kent is going through such a period at the moment. His confidence will have taken a dent and for him to regain his mojo back, he will need to be playing regularly, something that is unlikely to happen given the attacking strength that Liverpool have.
Hence, a loan move to the Ibrox in the summer, where he will get to play under the tutelage of a Liverpool legend, would prove to be beneficial for him. Rangers too will only stand to benefit from having the 21-year-old in their ranks. If he gets going, he could add an extra edge to their attacking contingent next season. A win-win for both parties.