Rangers-linked Colombian star talks future after Brighton take summer transfer decision
07/04/2024 09:00 AM
Since Philippe Clement came in through the door at Rangers, there have been plenty of players linked to the Ibrox club.
But cast your mind back to the January window and there was one rather interesting name doing the rounds when it came to the Ibrox side.
On loan at Standard Liege, London-born Colombian midfielder Steven Alzate had begun to find chances at a premium with parent club Brighton.
Rangers were tipped to offer the 25-year-old an Ibrox reprieve but the midfielder would stick around in Belgium until the end of his Brighton contract this summer.
Now, Alzate has made a public appearance on Sky Sports and claims he's on the hunt for a new challenge amid those lingering links to Rangers.
Alzate talks future on Sky Sports
Speaking to Sky Sports, Steven Alzate has been clear that he wants to remain in the Premier League.
But at the same time, the midfielder accepts that such an offer might not be so forthcoming.
As a result Alzate has confirmed that he's looking for the right offer from a 'top division' side in Italy, Germany or Spain.
Given Rangers' lack of quality depth in midfield – and provided those January transfer links were legitimate – some might've viewed Alzate as a potential summer option.
But the ex-Brighton star's latest comments appear to suggest the midfielder is not so open to a switch to Rangers as things stand.
"It's never easy being out of contract," said Alzate. "It's the first time it's happened to me.
"But I guess it's also exciting and I'm looking forward to what's going to happen.
"There's been interest. Obviously the market is only starting to pick up now because of the Euros and the Copa America.
"At this point speaking to my agent (who is) just telling me to be patient but we both know what I want next.
"I'd love to stay in the Premier League, if not definitely a top division somewhere in Spain, Italy, Germany.
"I feel like I've still got a lot more to show and I'm ready."
Rangers on midfield transfer hunt
Rangers have some big experience to replace in the middle of the park after the summer exits of Ryan Jack and John Lundstram.
With Todd Cantwell also strongly tipped to leave the club, there is big change coming in the midfield area at Ibrox.
Connor Barron has joined the Gers from Aberdeen but a high-profile move for Kenny McLean has stalled, leaving the Scotland star's agent in stitches.
There is building pressure on Nils Koppen and Philippe Clement to get this summer window right with numerous off-field distractions not helping fan nerves.
For the time being, Steven Alzate doesn't seem like an option for Rangers and that's perfectly ok as far as we're concerned.
Whilst we're not convinced the midfielder is of the required quality to take us to where we need to be, there's no room for anyone who isn't prioritising the Gers next season.
