Pundit Carlton Palmer has suggested that Rangers should sign former QPR midfielder Stefan Johansen on a free transfer in an interview with Football League World.
Palmer described Johansen as a ‘very, very good footballer’ in his review of the player and named Rangers as his next potential destination.
He drew upon Johansen’s massive wealth of experience, both at club level and on the international stage, saying that he is capable of playing at ‘a high level’.
What did Carlton Palmer say regarding Stefan Johansen?
Regarding Johansen, Palmer said: “Stefan Johansen is a very, very good footballer. I think maybe Glasgow Rangers might have a little look at him on a free. He is an experienced midfielder that can play really, really well and play at a high level.
“Maybe someone like Glasgow Rangers may look at him on a free. He’s available, has experience, and has worked with the previous manager.”
Should Rangers sign Stefan Johansen on a free transfer?
While Rangers fans may not be too enthralled at the idea of bringing a 32-year-old who was recently let go by a Championship club to the Ibrox Stadium, Johansen is far from a lame duck.
Moreover, following an underwhelming summer transfer window, snapping up an established talent for no fee whatsoever could be a canny move – especially when you consider that he has worked with Michael Beale in the past.
What’s more, it would benefit Rangers to bring another central midfielder to the club. They currently have just four fully fit senior players who can play in the middle of the park – Jose Cifuentes, Nicolas Raskin, Ryan Jack and John Lundstram.
While Beale likes to play a midfield two, meaning they do not need as many central midfielders as a team utilising a system with three players in the middle of the park, adding quality depth to their outfit certainly will not hurt.
Moreover, as a former captain of QPR, Johansen could also prove to be a positive, driving influence within the Rangers dressing room. The character of the squad has been questioned in recent weeks – an experienced professional who has seen it all, such as Johansen, may be just what they need.
