Borna Barisic appears to be on his way out of Rangers this summer. But, following reports suggesting that the long-serving left-back’s next destination may have already been decided, further speculation is emerging around the future of another Ibrox ace.
A man who, if the rumours are to be believed, could be following in Borna Barisic’s footsteps when his Rangers contract expires on July 1st.
There is a feeling that, with Ridvan Yilmaz going from strength to strength under Philippe Clement, the Glasgow giants can survive without Barisic these days. The 31-year-old is no longer the same irrepressible force of old, either from an attacking or a defensive standpoint, and Rangers already appear to have identified a replacement in the shape of Fluminense’s Jefte Vital.
Losing John Lundstram, however, would undoubtedly represent a far greater blow.
Rangers could lose John Lunstram for free
Unlike Barisic, who has lost his starting spot to Yilmaz, Lundstram remains one of the first names on Clement’s team sheet. Try as they might, however, Rangers are yet to come to an agreement on fresh terms. Lundstram will also become a free agent in three months’ time.
And, according to Turkish publication Akdeniz Gercek, there is interest at Trabzonspor in not only Barisic but Lundstram too. The report adds that Trabzonspor, Turkish Super Lig champions in 2022, have had contact with the former Sheffield United man.
The Black Sea-based outfit have allegedly already agreed personal terms with Barisic, who moved to Scotland from HNK Osijek for £2 million six years ago (Germanijak).
“Since the new manager has taken over, (Lundstram has been the) most consistent performer,” former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson tells The Go Radio Football Show
Midfielder in ‘exceptional’ form
“He’s just played that pivot in front of the two centre-backs and he’s just simplified his game which I think has brought his game up a level or two.
“So he’s one player I’m sure the manager will be desperate to get on a new contract because we all know he runs out of contract in the summer. Rangers will be desperate to get him tied down on a new deal.”
According to reports, talks over a new deal have stalled of late. There is a feeling that Lundstram may be looking for one last stab at the Premier League. It remains to be seen how a fresh start in Turkey appeals to a man who, having only turned 30 in February, still has a lot to offer at a high level.
“He’s probably playing the best football since he signed for Rangers. He looks to me as well that he is a real leader on the pitch and the players are obviously looking up to him,” Ferguson adds.
“He’s very vocal and that’s something that is missing in the modern day, communicating all the time. When I’m watching Rangers, he is one of they guys who is making sure if someone is out of position, he’s barking in their ear.
“I’ve got to be honest with you, his form over the last three or four months has been exceptional.”
