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Football

17th May 2018

Steven Gerrard linked with move for one of the most prolific strikers in Premier League history

He needs goals

Darragh Murphy

After already bringing in a midfielder and a goalkeeper, Steven Gerrard has turned his focus to a goalscorer.

Gerrard was confirmed as the new Rangers manager less than two weeks ago and he’s wasted no time in getting down to business.

Scott Arfield arrived from Burnley on Monday, while Wednesday saw goalkeeper Allan McGregor return to the club at which he started his career.

Gerrard is now looking to bolster the Gers attack and he’s identified Premier League legend Jermain Defoe, as well as Liverpool youngster Dominic Solanke, as potential options.

The Scottish Daily Record has reported that the Rangers manager is eager to bring Defoe, who has scored 162 Premier League goals in his career, and Solanke in on loan deals this summer.

Preliminary talks are understood to have taken place with both forwards as Gerrard attempts to build a squad which he hopes will topple Celtic’s dominance at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Defoe endured a somewhat frustrating campaign at Bournemouth last season, scoring four goals in 26 appearances, but the Cherries remain hopeful of keeping hold of the veteran, who has two years left on his current deal.

For Gerrard, however, Solanke may prove to be a more straightforward move as the Reds legend will likely be able to convince Jurgen Klopp of the benefits to sending the 20-year-old out on loan to glean some much-needed experience.

Also linked with moves to Ibrox this summer are Gerrard’s former teammates on Merseyside, Martin Skrtel and Lucas Leiva.