Why Rangers should pursue a loan move for Oleksandr Zinchenko
Rangers have endured an inconsistent start to the 2018/19 season under new manager Steven Gerrard, yet they find themselves just two points shy off table-toppers Celtic.
Gerrard oversaw wholesale changes to the squad in the summer as the former Liverpool skipper offloaded some deadwood and pumped in some fresh, young blood. The likes of Ovie Ejaria, Ryan Kent and Joe Worrall arrived in the summer, becoming a part of Gerrard’s revolution at the Ibrox.
Despite having a squad mixed with experience and youthful exuberance, Rangers have struggled to break down opposition defences at times this season. And very recently, Gerrard admitted he is keenly looking to sign a No.10 when the transfer window reopens in January.
With Gerrard making the signing of a playmaker his priority in January, Rangers would do a great job to bring in Manchester City starlet Oleksandr Zinchenko on loan.
The 21-year-old has frequently been on the fringes of the first-team setup at Manchester City, with the Ukrainian making 14 appearances for the Citizens last season, primarily as a makeshift left-back. The youngster has played just once in the Premier League so far this season and it is hard to see him get too many chances in the coming months either.
So with chances expected to arrive at a premium, Oleksandr Zinchenko should leave Manchester City in January. Rangers should sign the talented Ukrainian as he fits the bill perfectly for the No.10 role at the Ibrox.
Zinchenko has shown a lot of versatility at Manchester City, playing in central midfield, left-back and as a left wing-back. But his natural position is the No.10 role behind the striker.
The 21-year-old is one supremely talented player who needs confidence and regular opportunities to grow. At Rangers, he could certainly develop under the watchful eyes of Gerrard.
A fast, agile and a nimble-footed attacker who can operate in a number of positions, Zinchenko has a wonderful technique and combines his silky dribbling skills with his brilliant close control to create that extra space for himself in the wide areas.
He possesses excellent vision and creativity, while his pace enables him to run at defenders and pose problems. The Ukrainian also puts in the hard yards defensively and would bring in all the elements that Gerrard needs from a No.10.
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It is highly possible that Man City may not part ways with him permanently but the Gers must do everything in their powers to acquire the services of the talented Ukrainian in the New Year.