McLeish fears Patterson to ‘push’ to join billionaire-owned club in ‘big blow’ to Rangers
Alex McLeish has suggested Nathan Patterson may “push” to leave Rangers and join Everton in January.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Rangers and Scotland boss claimed Patterson is an “amazing prospect” and losing him would be a “big blow” to the Gers.
The Guardian reported on Tuesday (21 December) that Everton, who are owned by billionaire Farhad Moshiri, are set to make a third attempt to sign the 20-year-old in the upcoming January transfer window.
The right-back, who has only started two Scottish Premiership games this term, was the subject of two bids from the Blues in the summer window.
“It’s down to the individual,” McLeish told Football insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“Nathan has come in and had a whirlwind introduction with some great performances, he’s been fantastic for Scotland too. He’s scored a goal for the national team. He’s looking like an amazing prospect.
“When you that you’re age, when you’re hungry and know you’ve got a good chance then I think he will be pushing to get first-team football. If that means he’s got to leave Rangers then it would be a huge blow for Rangers.
“It will come down to the player and how much he feels he should increase his name and football knowledge.
“Going to the English Premier League is the best league in the world. Patterson knows that, his agent will know that and his parents will know that. Let’s face it everybody else knows that.
“It looks like it’s going to be so tough to get in ahead of James [Tavernier].”
Patterson has now played 27 games across all competitions for the Gers.
The academy product also has six Scotland caps to his name and was part of Steve Clarke’s squad at last summer’s (2021) European Championship.
In other news, Ibrox sources have revealed a chairman has signed off a Rangers player transfer after an agreement is reached.