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Why Celtic need £15m-rated winger much more than Rangers – TBR View

Will Butcher

Wed 15 July 2020 19:45, UK

Rangers have reportedly joined Celtic and top-tier English sides in the race to sign West Ham United star Grady Diangana, as he continues to shine on loan at West Brom – but do the Hoops need the winger more than the Gers?

Diangana, 22, joined West Brom last summer after clocking up 21 senior West Ham appearances – and scoring twice. He has played a crucial part in Slaven Bilic’s pursuit of promotion, having a hand in 13 goals during 29 games.

that such form has attracted interest from Celtic and Ajax, while Everton and Newcastle are also keeping tabs on the England Under-21 international. He is rated between £15million and £20million by West Ham.

Since that report, that Rangers have made contact with Diangana’s representatives as Steven Gerrard looks to swoop and lure the winger to Ibrox. He has a contract at West Ham until 2025.

Gerrard is clearly an admirer, having tried to sign Diangana last summer. With the player keen on a move to Glasgow, both clubs are seemingly keen – but surely Celtic need Diangana more than Rangers?

Both clubs have signed wingers this summer – Rangers completing a permanent deal for Ianis Hagi while Mo Elyounoussi has rejoined Celtic on loan for the 2020-21 campaign.

Elyounoussi and James Forrest start for Celtic, either side of Odsonne Edouard – while Hagi and Ryan Kent join Alfredo Morelos in attack. But it is the strength in depth out wide that means Celtic need Diangana more.

Rangers have it in abundance. Jamie Murphy, Brandon Barker, Jordan Jones, Greg Stewart, Glenn Middleton – and Joe Aribo and Scott Arfield can also play there. Celtic do not have as many options out wide.

Marian Shved is the only other recognised winger in the Celtic squad, with Ryan Christie and Tom Rogic better used in the 10 role. Not only would Diangana be a good Celtic signing, but the Hoops need him more than Rangers.