Rangers were linked with a host of cut-price deals in the summer, managing to get ones for Fashion Sakala and John Lundstram over the line and we could see a potential return when the window opens again in January.
One of these players is Zinedine Ferhat, the Algerian international currently playing for Nimes in France’s Ligue 2, unexpected given how well he had played in the top flight last season and the interest that surrounding the midfielder.
Marseille and Strasbourg were two of the teams said to be interested but nothing materialised and he will soon be able to speak to clubs about a potential pre-contract agreement which certainly makes him an attractive option for Ross Wilson and Steven Gerrard – improving the quality and depth of the squad without braking the bank.
He’s not had a great start though, after contributing a goal or assist every two games in Ligue 1, he has barely kicked a ball this season for Nimes, featuring for just 134 minutes and starting just one game with no mention of him suffering from any injuries – strange when you consider that they have won just three out of 10 fixtures.
Valued at over £7million, his signature will be in high demand, you can never have too many creative midfielders capable of playing in a middle or front three after all and at 28-years old, whoever gets him will be getting a player who is the finished article.
Keeping the squad fresh is our sporting director’s next task, replacing players who are due to be moved on and upgrading those who haven’t made the desired impact won’t be easy on a budget but in Ferhat’s case there is one available who would cost less than Brandon Barker.