Rangers told to agree John Lundstram deal amid new ‘£15m’ claim – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Rangers to keep John Lundstram around for a further three years by offering him a new deal.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 28-year-old would cost £15million to replace in the transfer market.
Lundstram is currently contracted until June 2024 and the Daily Record (21 September) has suggested he could be in line for renewed terms.
The former Sheffield United man has started all 13 of the Ibrox club’s games this season.
He was instrumental to Rangers’ Europa League run last term – playing all but 10 minutes in the knockout stages as Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side were defeated against Eintracht Frankfurt in the final.
Whelan insisted the midfielder is now one of the Gers’ most important players after an initial tough time at Ibrox.
When asked if signing Lundstram to a new deal is a no-brainer, he told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think it is now.
“When he came in initially he found it hard to settle and find form, but he’s ridden out that hard time.
“He’s come through that, and he’s now become one of their most important players.
“That energy, that aggression he brings to that midfield – it’s invaluable.
“He’s settled into the club, and 28 years old is when you’re coming into the best part of your career and playing your best football.
“It makes sense to tie him down for another three years, minimum. Right now, with the market how it is, Rangers would end up paying £15million to get a player of his ability.
“You’re better off keeping someone around who has that bit between his teeth and has shown it both domestically and in Europe as well.”
In other news, Rangers expert baffled by “surprise” Giovanni van Bronckhorst decision.