Reports in Norway have linked Patrick Berg with a move to an unnamed club in Scotland.
The 23-year old has 4 caps for the senior national team and currently plies his trade with Bodo/Glimt, the reigning Eliteserien champions.
Deployed mostly as a number six, Berg does most of his work as a deep lying midfielder as was evidenced across 28 games in the successful league campaign last season.
Norwegian press outlet VG reported that the player has attracted interest from Scotland as well as suggesting a fee of around £1.2 million for the midfielder.
Given the fee and relative pedigree, realistically it can only be Rangers or Celtic in the running.
The 4th Official site have also tracked this speculation and provided further insight on Berg:
“Bodo/Glimt, understandably, are willing to keep hold of their prized asset. Berg’s set-piece attribute, long ball accuracy as well as shooting traits help him orchestrate the show from the centre of the pitch.”
“Although the midfielder needs to work more on short passes, through balls and aerial ability; his composure and vision while scripting attacking transitions should see him attuning to the demands of the Scottish game.”
Model
It is this type of move that Rangers need to identify.
Players, in the mold of Berg at this stage of their career often make moves to secondary leagues on par with Scotland but by the time they are ready for the next step, the big five leagues beckon and Rangers are priced out.
Signing a 23-year old full international with over 100 senior games fits the model at Ibrox, under the watch of Steven Gerrard and sporting director, Ross Wilson.
With the shortlist drawn up, further signings will follow over the next few weeks as the start of pre-season training draws closer.