Report: Rangers scouting NK Osijek hitman Mirko Maric

Add as preferred source on Google

The Daily Record have claimed Rangers could be about to raid NK Osijek for the third time in the space of the year by luring target man Mirko Maric to Ibrox this summer.

Rangers played against Osijek in the Europa League qualifying stages last summer, winning 2-1 on aggregate. Since then, Rangers have signed Borna Barisic and Eros Grezda from the top-tier Croatian side.

Now, they could make it three by landing striker Maric. Still only 23 years of age, Maric has been in sensational form for Osijek this season – leading the goalscoring charts in Croatian domestic football.

He has found the back of the net 14 times in 30 league games, as well as adding six assists. His physicality and aerial prowess is a nightmare for defenders to play against.

It is believed Rangers have been scouting the two-time Croatia international for some time, and that he has the same agent company as Grezda – Argentum Sport. Rangers are said to have built a strong connection with the agency.

TBR’s view

The only stumbling price for Rangers is the fee. At £3million, Maric is somewhat expensive given he has never played his football in any of the top leagues.

Rangers must also be wary, when considering the form of Barisic and Grezda. Near £5million was spent on the two players, but neither can say that have had a good season at Ibrox – certainly not Grezda.

Do they need him? It could all depend on the future of Alfredo Morelos. But the style of Maric is most similar to that of 31-year-old Kyle Lafferty. It could be curtains for Northern Ireland international if Maric is signed.