It has been reported today that Nikola Katic is on his way out of Ibrox, on loan.
As expected, the popular Croatian defender is set to make a move in order to secure valuable game time as part of his recovery from the serious knee injury which has blighted his time in Glasgow over the last year.
Jordan Campbell of The Athletic has stated that a return home beckons for Katic, to sign for an unnamed club.
Understand that Nikola Katic is heading on loan to a Croatian club. Rangers have built up his fitness this summer but he needs to play football after such a long time out. Expect that there will be a recall clause in the deal, as is common when a player is being monitored.
— Jordan Campbell (@JordanC1107) August 31, 2021
Unfortunately for the player, time is against him and he has to prove his form and fitness in order to secure a future in Steven Gerrard’s plans.
There are valid questions over Katic’s ability with the ball at his feet, so that is perhaps a factor in his loan destination as opposed to a move to another Premiership club or to the Championship in England.
A more technical game is what he will be faced with in his homeland rather than the general rough and tumble of the Scottish game where commitment, desire and application is certainly not in doubt as far as the central defender is concerned.
Rangers would have easily been able to track and follow the progress of their man had he remained in the Premiership but it appears that he will head home for the near future with a recall clause mooted.
Once confirmed, Niko Katic’s progress will be keenly monitored by the supporters as well as those inside the club, given the affection and high esteem that is felt toward the 24-year old.