Rangers backed to swoop for Jack Mackenzie deal after Aberdeen contract update
Rangers can easily secure Aberdeen’s Jack MacKenzie on a free transfer as the 24-year-old is “highly unlikely” to sign a new deal at Aberdeen, according to Scott McDermott.
New technical director Nils Koppen has been backed by the Daily Record journalist to secure a straightforward pre-contract for the left-back, as the Belgian looks to untangle issues behind the scenes while manager Philippe Clement battles inconsistency on the pitch.
Koppen is faced with the immediate task of January’s transfer window. Reinforcements are deemed essential, particularly a full-back, a holding midfielder, and a striker.
With funds expected to be tight MacKenzie is seen as an obvious port of call ahead of the summer when the 24-year-old left-back is out of contract in the summer, with the six foot three inch defender tipped to be a deal that can be secured “with relative ease”.
Rangers could strike Aberdeen blow after Connor Barron move
Football Insider opinion
The Scottish ace has been a standout performer for Aberdeen this season, playing a crucial role in their impressive 12-match unbeaten streak at the start of the SPL campaign.
While their momentum was halted by a heavy 6-0 loss to Celtic in the League Cup, the Dons remain second in the league, just two points behind the champions.
MacKenzie has started every match, contributing one assist, and his solid form earned him a recent call-up to the Scotland national team for their upcoming fixtures against Croatia and Portugal.
At just 24, he is well-suited to make the step up to Ibrox. His defensive reliability, physicality, and consistency would make him an immediate upgrade over some of Rangers’ current options, despite Jefte’s decent showing this term.
With Ridvan Yilmaz’s persistent injury struggles—having missed more games than he’s played since his move from Besiktas two years ago—MacKenzie offers a far more dependable option.
The Gers could greatly benefit from his Scottish core, defensive solidity, and fitness, especially with the opportunity to sign him on a free transfer. It would be a smart and strategic move for the club.
If he looks that certain to leave Pittodrie then the summer move to pick up Connor Barron in similar circumstances could provide an obvious blueprint for a repeat.
In other news, Steven Naismith has given his verdict on Lawrence Shankland joining Rangers.
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