Roma striker Umar Sadiq close to becoming Steven Gerrard’s eighth Rangers signing

RANGERS are close to making striker Umar Sadiq their eighth signing of the summer.

According to STV, the Ibrox club are in advanced talks with the Nigerian forward and his club AS Roma over a season-long loan deal.

Steven Gerrard is looking for new striking options with Kenny Miller leaving the club, Jason Cummings’ loan from Nottingham Forest coming to an end and the likely departure of Eduardo Herrera.

Alfredo Morelos could also attract interest from other clubs.

21-year-old Sadiq spent the second half of last season on loan at NAC Breda in the Eredivisie, scoring five goals in 13 games.

In last weekend’s Sunday Post, the man who signed Sadiq for Roma, Rudi Garcia, said a loan move to Ibrox would be ideal for both the club and the player.

The now-Marseille boss said: “I think it would be a great move for both parties.

“Umar would have much to offer them, but he would also benefit greatly because this is a club with a great tradition and a truly exceptional support.”

He added: “Scottish football is certainly very physical, so Sadiq would need to learn how to deal with that aspect of the game.

“But I wouldn’t see that being a problem as he is a good learner, who always listens very carefully to what his coaches tell him.

“All in all, I think it would be a great opportunity for him.”

READ MORE

Rudi Garcia reckons Umar Sadiq would be perfect signing for Rangers

Sadiq would be Gerrard’s eighth addition to the squad.

Rangers handed a two-year deal to defender Jon Flanagan yesterday, with Nikola Katic and Connor Goldson also arriving to bolster the defence.

Goalkeeper Allan McGregor has returned to the club this summer after several years away.

Jamie Murphy’s loan deal from Brighton was made permanent, and Scott Arfield has made the switch from Burnley.

Liverpool youngster Ovie Ejaria also joins the Ibrox club on loan.