Former West Bromwich Albion defender Gareth McAuley has spoken about speculation linking him with a host of clubs this summer, including Rangers.
The Ibrox side have been consistently reported to be interested in signing the 38-year-old and adding another defender to the squad is clearly a priority in the final week of the transfer window.
McAuley though is waiting for the right club and the right offer, not willing to rush into a bad decision for the sake of a quick cash crab.
As quoted by The Times, the Northern Ireland international said:
There are lads who go through this sort of thing season after season, waiting for clubs, moving around all over the place, but I’m not thinking ‘I have to pay the bills. I’ve had offers, and turned down good contracts, but they weren’t right for various reasons.
I’m just waiting for something that ticks all the boxes. The last thing I want to do is sign and think a few months down the line that this is wrong.
I have to do what’s right for me and my family. Ideally I would like to get a deal done and get training and playing. I just have to try and make the right decision.
It certainly sounds like the experienced defender is a wanted man this summer and although he is a veteran in the twilight of his career, it’s understandable why. He’s made over 200 appearances in the English Premier League, with almost 200 more coming in the English Championship.
That kind of experience would be a serious benefit to many clubs, including Rangers, who need back-up and competition for both Connor Goldson and Nikola Katic.
Bringing in McAuley, who would provide the defence benefits off the pitch as well as on it, could be a shrewd transfer decision.
Is it time for Rangers to make their move and secure the 38-year-old’s services for a season?
Would you be happy with the signing of Gareth McAuley? Share your thoughts in the comments below…