News that Leon King is about to commit his future is a huge boost, not only for the fans, but for Michael Beale, Ross Wilson and the board.
The 18-year old is hugely talented and, arguably, the current jewel in the academy’s crown. Interested parties would now have to pay something similar to the fee that saw Nathan Patterson leave for Everton should they wish to persuade him to follow the former Gers right-back down the M6.
Michael Beale says news on Leon King’s new contract should come in the next couple of days and that a senior player in the squad will also be signing an extension (not Ryan Kent he confirmed).
— Jordan Campbell (@JordanC1107) December 14, 2022
What was an added bonus in the manager’s press conference was that he revealed that another senior player is about to put pen to paper, thoughts, obviously and immediately turned to Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos, however, that was swiftly ruled out.
Which begs the question – who?
Allan McGregor, Filip Helander and Steven Davis can be ruled out on the basis of age and value for money with Scott Arfield also likely to be moved on due to Alex Lowry being more than capable of replacing his minutes.
Which leaves, realistically, Ryan Jack of those whose contract expires in 2023, Adam Devine is part of the first team squad but he can hardly be classed as “senior”.
The situation doesn’t get any better the following season either with Ianis Hagi, John Lundstram, Kemar Roofe, Borna Barisic and Jon McLaughlin also coming to the end of their respective deals, there’s every chance that it could one of them too.
Having key players on long deals is always beneficial, hopefully, Beale has thrown a dummy and that Kent is pictured holding a Rangers top and another few years on his contract.