Rangers prepare bid for Motherwell’s Elliot Watt as sources have told Ibrox Noise he’s high on Danny Rohl’s want list.
Rohl brought Tochi Chukwuani in during January, and has Lyall Cameron, Connor Barron and Nico Raskin in the central midfield areas, but Rangers’ collapse during the Split has opened the door for Watt.
Rohl is said to believe that Rangers’ core midfield is weak and doesn’t dominate matches, and it would have to be said that Chucky as yet hasn’t really settled in Govan.
Cameron is not favoured by the boss, and neither is Barron as yet. Raskin is likely to leave if a good bid arrives.
So Watt is deemed a strong contender to arrive in Govan if Rangers bid Motherwell’s asking price.
Ibrox Noise understands this is northwards of £3M.
Watt’s current deal runs out next summer and there’s an option for a further year. It’s one which Motherwell have the power to activate.
But if Watt wants the move to Rangers ‘Well may be left with a very unhappy player on their hands if they engage that extension.
Watt is 26 and managed his breakout season last term for an excellent Motherwell, and vultures are sniffing around all the best Fir Park assets including the Scotland U21 international.
What has impressed scouts most about Watt is not just necessarily goals or assists. But rather his ability to dictate the tempo of a match. Rangers have lacked that kind of authority in the middle of the park for some time. While Nico Raskin remains the standout operator at Ibrox, there have been too many occasions where Rangers have been overrun in key fixtures. Particularly during the disastrous closing weeks of last season.
Style
Watt offers energy, composure and a willingness to take responsibility on the ball. Those are attributes which have caught the attention of the Rangers recruitment department, and indeed Danny Rohl himself. The German has repeatedly spoken about the need for stronger personalities and more control in midfield. Watt appears to fit that profile.
There is also the matter of Scottish experience. Rangers have often been criticised for overlooking the domestic market in favour of foreign imports. While some have worked out brilliantly, others have struggled badly to adapt to the unique pressures of Scottish football. Watt already knows the league, understands the demands and would arrive without any settling in period.
Indeed, Motherwell’s rise last season owed much to the influence of the midfielder. He became one of the first names on the teamsheet and regularly produced mature performances against both halves of the Premiership. It is no surprise that several clubs are now monitoring his situation.
Rangers will want to get this one done quick.