A local report in the Midlands has suggested that Steven Gerrard is considering a bid for Rangers defender Leon King.
The 17-year old is a B team regular, but only on the fringes of the first team at present and yet to commit to fresh contract terms at Ibrox meaning that English clubs are aware of the situation and ready to pounce.
Birmingham Live has reported that Aston Villa have joined Leicester, Newcastle and Manchester United in tracking King and given Gerrard’s knowledge of the player, they could be in an advantagous position if he decides that he will depart Glasgow.
The report stated:
“Aston Villa are considering a move for Rangers youngster Leon King – who they could get for just over £200,000.”
“The Ibrox side are in talks with their talented 17-year-old over a new contract.”
“The young defender has still to agree an extension with the Scottish champions and as it stands he runs out of contract in the summer and could move in a cut-price cross-border switch.”
“That has alerted Villa, whose boss Steven Gerrard knows how highly King is rated from his own time at Ibrox.”
Time
Leon King is considered as a real prospect and a significant talent, but not quite ready for first team involvement just yet. At this stage, there is no rush for the lad and he should be concentrating on his development as well as a possible loan to follow soon, in order to make an impression on Giovanni van Bronckhorst and his coaching staff.
However, with the clock running down on his existing contract there remains that temptation to look for pastures new if he feels a first team pathway will be more readily available elsewhere as well as the increase in money that would be available with a move to England.
This week, King was quoted as saying that he is not taking any interest in speculation with his focus remaining on the football – hopefully that remains the case with talks planned soon by Ross Wilson to secure a new contract.