There is an unfortunate downside to Rangers performing so well in the Europa League and gaining qualification to the knockout stages a round early, the players that have got them there become targets for deep pocketed continental sides.
The latest name to be linked with a move is Glen Kamara – who has attracted interest from the Premier League and abroad in the past – with group rivals Benfica said to be impressed with his performances in the clashes between the two, according to TEAMtalk.
Earlier in the season, Steven Gerrard was asked about the Finland international’s importance to the team and about the rumours of a new contract for Kamara and he was emphatic in his reply:
“I’ve made my feelings known to Ross (Wilson, sporting director) and the board on that situation.
“Glen has been fantastic for me since day one. He’s grown and he’s evolved. He’s improved and he’s listened. There were different areas of his game that we felt we could shape and help him become a better player.
“But he is the one who has really gone out and worked on his game both in and out of possession. He’s in a fantastic place and is playing with confidence.
“He was superb at the weekend but for me he has been really consistent for much longer than that.
“We want Glen around us for as long as possible and everyone knows my feelings on that situation.”
Rangers really have shown that you don’t have to break the bank to get quality players through the door, the whole midfield – including Bongani Zungu – cost less than £500,000 to assemble, not bad for six internationals and Kamara, at £50k has been a bargain.
Figures in the region of £10million have been quoted, but if he has a good European Championships, his price tag is only going to go in one direction, getting him on a longer contract that reflects his worth to the team will strengthen this claim – Benfica have spent big this year and they will need to do so again if they want to tempt Rangers into letting Kamara go.