Ally McCoist amazed by Rangers star Ryan Kent, amid Leeds United transfer links

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Ally McCoist has told TalkSPORT (7.25AM, Monday) that Rangers star Ryan Kent is a “joy to watch” and is the best player in Scottish football with the ball at his feet, amid continued reports that Leeds United want the Rangers ace at Elland Road.

Kent, 24, has played a pivotal role in Rangers being awarded the Scottish Premiership title. Steven Gerrard has guided Rangers to an unbeaten league season, stopping Celtic’s 10 in a row and amassing their biggest points total – with 102 on the board.

The ex-Liverpool attacker Kent has clocked up 28 goal involvements throughout the season during his 52 appearances in all competitions, including two goals two assists in his last four league games. Leeds are said to remain interested in Kent.

Marcelo Bielsa is a renowned admirer of Kent, but The Daily Star state that Gerrard is looking to tie down Kent to new-and-improved terms – with Leeds looking to sign the £18million-rated star. McCoist gave his verdict on Monday morning.

“The game lights up when he gets the ball,” McCoist said. “He is the best ball-player in the country, when he gets the ball you get to the edge of your seat. Stepovers, thread a pass, or give it away – that is the kind of player he is. He has been excellent.”

TBR’s view – Kent would be a stunning signing

He has all the traits that Marcelo Bielsa looks for in an attacking players. Firstly, the ability produce something out of nothing. Whether that be a goal, an assist, a bit of skill, a shot from distance – Kent has it. He is not dissimilar from Raphinha.

While he might not be as good as Raphinha, he is just as effective in the final third – at least he has been, for Rangers. Secondly, his versatility is plentiful, something which Bielsa prefers. Either flank, the 10 role, or up front with a striker, Kent can do it.

At £18million, he is a risk given the lower standard of Scottish football – but he has also starred in Europe. He is worth the risk, even if he does not start regularly for Bielsa’s men. But would he want to leave, with Champions League football on the horizon?