Report: Rangers interested in Argentine right-back

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TalkSPORT have claimed that Rangers are rivalling a whole host of European clubs to sign Argentine right-back Leonel Di Placido for a bargain figure from Lanus – as a potential replacement for James Tavernier.

Di Placido, 25, has entered the final 12 months of his contract at top-tier Argentine side Lanus, despite becoming a regular with the club over the past couple of seasons. Indeed, his form has dramatically improved of late.

He helped his side keep seven clean sheets in 24 outings, as well as scoring one goal and laying on another two assists. It saw Argentina’s national side come calling towards the end of 2018.

Di Placido was an unused substitute during international friendlies against Guatemala and Colombia in December 2018, but he has failed to gain a recall since. A move to European football might just help him do that.

It is believed that, due to his current contract situation, a knockdown price of just £1million is enough to sign him. The report claims that Rangers see him as a replacement for Tavernier, despite Tavernier’s loyalty to the Gers.

He may be seen as back-up to the Rangers skipper, but the Gers face competition. Amiens in France want him after selling Emil Krafth to Newcastle, while Spanish sides Leganes and Espanyol also want the right-back.

TBR’s view – At just £1m, Di Placido is a bargain for Rangers

Able to play at right-back or on the right of midfield, Di Placido would not only be Tavernier’s back-up – but the defender is certainly good enough to replace the goalscoring defender.

He may not lay on as many goals and assists but in terms of overall defending and joining in with the attack as a wing-back, Di Placido can match Tavernier’s impact on the Rangers side.

With Rangers likely to draw in a figure in the region of £10million for Tavernier’s signature eventually with Crystal Palace said to be keen, signing Di Placido for just £1million is excellent business.