Rangers are definitely going to have a younger look to the starting XI next season with Philippe Clement’s recruitment strategy already taking shape.
The manager is fully aware of the task in hand as he sets about rebuilding a squad in desperate need of repair.
The latest speculation sees Nathaniel Adjei linked with an Ibrox move once again with Regis le Bris, his manager at Lorient, explaining why the 21-year old has the mentality needed to succeed at Rangers.
Nathaniel Adjei shows Rangers qualities with Lorient loan
It’s easy to see why Rangers want to buy Adjei because he has very few weaknesses in terms of the main components needed to be an elite level centre-half.
He is physical, good in the air, comfortable on the ball and quick.
The £5m reported price tag might seem steep, but Adjei’s career trajectory is only heading in one direction.
Lorient’s relegation from Ligue 1 means that the towering stopper is looking for a new club after returning to Sweden and his parent club Hammarby with Rangers named as one of the potential suitors.
It is easy to assess his physical and technical attributes, however, what is he like as a person?
Le Bris was full of praise when asked by French media outlet Foot Amateur how Adjei had adapted to a higher level of football in a country where he didn’t speak the language:
“He immediately got the hang of the position. He has defensive consistency, responsibility for ball exits and leadership.
“He is an important player for the end of the season.
“He still makes small mistakes out of a desire to do too well.
“Experience cannot be bought. But young people, with a personality, can cope very well with these meetings. And Adjei is one of those rigorous, disciplined players who approach this kind of moment well.”
The Lorient boss also adds how vocal Adjei was despite not speaking French and immediately settled in to organising those around him.
Adjei qualities could accelerate Goldson departure
Talent alone is never enough at Rangers as we have seen from players coming through the academy.
Rarely is it the ones who light up age group football who succeed, instead, it is the ones who make sacrifices and are the hardest working that make the grade.
Anyone signing for Rangers has to be confident, borderline arrogant, and have the mental strength needed to cope with the lows as well as drive those around them to the highs.
For the money mentioned, and the position that Nathaniel Adjei plays, Connor Goldson must be thinking about where his future lies.
Amid speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia and a reunion with Steven Gerrard, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the vice-captain empty his Auchenhowie locker.
