22-year-old Mali International midfielder, Lassasna Coulibaly is the latest name to be linked with a loan move to Steven Gerrard’s Rangers revolution.
Coulibaly is a powerful midfielder who plies his trade in Ligue 1 in France. After putting in some eye-catching displays for Bastia – where he made 49 appearances – the defensive midfielder moved to fellow Ligue 1 outfit, SCO Angers for £1.8 million last summer.
The Mali international has had limited opportunities with his new side, featuring only 22 times for the club last season. As such, it is understood that the French club are open to the idea of loaning the player out and seeing as Coulibaly has been capped several times for Mali, obtaining a work permit for the UK should not be an issue.
Some fans and ex-players have been critical of Gerrard’s transfer approach of bringing in young players on loan.
Former Rangers forward, Kris Boyd, publicly voiced his scepticism:
“You can’t just say, ‘oh, I’m going to go and bring in youngsters on loan’ because we’ve seen it before, it won’t work.”
In contrast to Boyd’s views, there is a distinct possibility that Gerrard’s loan deals will be mutually beneficial for all parties.
For example with Couliably; the player would get a priceless opportunity to train under the watch of a midfield great, Rangers get a short-term fix to shore up their midfield and Angers can watch their young asset develop in to a better player.
The Ibrox side have also brought in 20-year-old Liverpool midfielder, Ovie Ejaria, on loan. The Ejaria deal struck a chord with another Rangers legend, Kenny Miller.
Miller has shown more optimism than his former strike partner and praised the loan signing:
“I think he’s a fantastic player. He could be a real highlight if he plays the way I’ve seen him play on a few occasions.”
What do you think Rangers fans? Is Gerrard adopting the right strategy in bringing in talented prospects on loan or should he be concentrating on making permanent signings?
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.