Rangers are weighing up a move for Aaron Ramsdale this summer, with doubts over Jack Butland’s future at Ibrox.
Although Butland has been number one since his arrival in Glasgow, the goalkeeper’s dip in form last season saw him dropped for Liam Kelly.
Butland was recalled by Barry Ferguson for the two final games of the campaign, but there are questions over whether the 32-year-old has enough to retain his position.
As Russell Martin gets his first look at the players with pre-season underway, it will be up to him to decide whether his current option is up to scratch.
Rangers and Ramsdale not a match
With the uncertainty over Butland’s future at Rangers, it’s no surprise that Ramsdale has been linked with a move to Ibrox.
After Southampton suffered relegation back down to the Championship, Ramsdale is likely to be seeking a move this summer, and a reunion with Martin could be on the cards.
Although the Saints are reluctant to part ways with the player who was one of the few positives for them last term, it has been reported that a loan move could be on the cards.
With the World Cup coming up next summer, Ramsdale is likely to want to have the opportunity to show his best levels in the hope of securing a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Galatasaray have also been credited with interest in the player, but previous links with Martin could be enough to sway him to the Scottish Premiership.
However, Ray Parlour has admitted he doesn’t think this would be the right move for the 27-year-old as he said live on talkSPORT (24 June, 8:13 am): “I think he’s got to stay in the Premier League, so I’ll say no. I think he’s got too much to offer. I’m not knocking, I know Rangers and Celtic are massive.”
Alan Brazil agreed that the transfer shouldn’t happen, but his reasoning was in favour of Butland instead as he said: “I don’t see why [Rangers need a new goalkeeper]. I thought he’s been good for Rangers.”
Martin needs confidence in his goalkeeper
Butland didn’t have a great end to the season for Rangers, but throughout his time with the Bears, he has certainly performed well enough to be afforded some blips.
That being said, Martin needs to have full confidence in his squad and especially his goalkeeper, which may push him towards going for a deal for Ramsdale.
Although Parlour isn’t sure it would be the right move, the pair already have a strong working relationship and reuniting at Ibrox could allow both of them to shine in the ways they hope to.
This is certainly one to watch as the window drags on.
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