There are some serious doubts surrounding the futures of a number of Rangers strikers at the end of the season, with three or four being tipped for pastures new in the summer. With that in mind it has been suggested that the club could be looking at Newcastle forward Ivan Toney as a possible recruit.
I don`t know a great deal about the player, but he certainly wouldn`t be someone to sign if we were looking for a regular supply of goals. On loan at English League One club Scunthorpe, the 21 year old has started a few matches, but his eight goals in all competitions means he is not the most prolific.
Saying that, he has only started 16 games this season, but his goal to game ratio throughout his career is 1 in 5, which is unlikely to improve if he moves to us north of the border, where he will arguably be coming up against better quality defences.
Still, if we are going to pursue the striker, I would trust the judgement of director of football Mark Allen following an excellent January transfer window. Of course, not every transfer will end up being a success, but the percentage of successful signings has certainly improved going by the club`s most recent recruits.
Toney has two years left on his contract at St James` Park, and while a transfer fee will be needed, the fact that he is available for transfer would make him a relatively cheap purchase.
On those very limited terms then the prospect of making a move for the Englishman is more attractive than it would otherwise be. His record means he would have to do a lot of convincing if he does make the switch Glasgow, but perhaps a fresh start at a new club is all that he needs.
He has had loan spells at four different clubs in the last three seasons, and it may be the case that he needs a new permanent home to flourish. Whether he does move to Ibrox, we will have to wait and see, but he does look like someone who could be a decent signing if he has the potential to improve and develop his game. If not, we certainly haven`t risked much by taking a gamble anyway.
Share this article
