With talk of Borna Barisic coming under interest from Turkish champions Trabzonspor, it poses a question for Rangers left flank.
The Croatian international possesses undoubted quality in his left peg, but he is expendable and could depart Ibrox this Summer. That scenario is complicated further with potential bids for Calvin Bassey and if both were to leave, it would leave Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team very light on the left side of defence, initially at least.
Given the importance of the Champions League qualifiers in the first couple of weeks of the season, it would be unlikely for both to seal moves so soon. As always, bids from interest clubs will determine any sales.
In certain games last season, opponents were keen to target Barisic as a perceived weakness and soft spot to get in behind. The two high profile incidents at Parkhead spring to mind, but this also happened in home games with the left-back too often, too hesitant to engage with the attacker.
There is an argument for a stronger, more robust player to come in to give a better all round performance, if BB was to move on.
Situation
The 29-year old has two years remaining on his Ibrox deal but he and his representatives could feel that now is the time for his last significant contract to cover the next two to three years of his career if they aim to better his current terms in Glasgow.
From a recent interview given in his homeland whilst on international duty, the former Osijek man was grounded yet pragmatic about any potential move, stating:
“I don’t know only about the club (Rangers), but I am good there and enjoy it.”
“However in football you never know, there are always some inquiries. There could be an offer that satisfies the club and me. Of course, you would then leave but until that it does not go further.”
Barisic enjoys a decent profile thanks to his place in the Croatia squad where he has featured recently as well as his role in Rangers fine run in European football over recent seasons – clubs know what they will be getting.
Despite that, the official line appears to be that no bids have been received, but reports of interest are ongoing.