Rangers are planning a cut-price deal for Preston North End goalkeeper Declan Rudd who is out of contract this summer, according to Football Insider.
Preston are yet to lose a home game and are the division’s top scorers, impressing many as the division’s potential surprise package this term. Declan Rudd has been an ever-present this season in the Preston side that currently sit second on goal difference and two points behind leaders West Brom.
Rudd joined the Liliywhites in the summer of 2017 from Norwich, having previously impressed whilst on loan at Deepdale in 2013. His contract is due to run out this summer and Steven Gerrard is keen on securing a cut-price deal for the 28-year-old to see him join the Glasgow giants.
Football Insider have reported that Gerrard is keen to add the Preston goalkeeper to his squad with the Allan McGregor close to turning 38 and second-choice Wes Foderingham’s contract due to run out at the same time as Rudd’s.
With the news emerging of Rangers’ interest in the Preston stopper, we take a look at three knock-on effects for the Lancashire club if Rangers are to get their man in January…
Alex Neil must look for a replacement
With Rudd’s contract running down and the club not yet moving to secure his services beyond this season, it would be wise for Alex Neil to begin searching for his replacement.
Losing Rudd would leave a gap in the Preston squad that probably wouldn’t be adequately filled by those that are currently below him in the pecking order, due to the lack of experience between them in the Championship.
Searching for a replacement might present a dilemma for Neil because of the lack of money coming in for Rudd, meaning Preston would have to be smart in how they replace him.
Their form could drop
Rudd has impressed so far this season and been one of the reasons for Preston’s great run of form, especially at home. If Rudd were to leave in January, Preston would be without a solid goalkeeper for the time being while they replace him and their form could suffer as a result.
At the heart of any defence is a strong goalkeeping presence, instilling confidence into the side and Preston have this in Rudd so it would be difficult to deal without this quality if they lose him.
Others could step up
While it is obvious that Preston would be weaker for the loss of Rudd, it could present a glorious opportunity for whoever Alex Neil deems the best candidate to step in to replace him.
For example, Connor Ripley has had to be patient to make first-team appearances and losing Rudd to Rangers could give him the chance to prove to the manager that he has what it takes to replace the departed ‘keeper long-term.
It would be good business in the long run if Ripley has what it takes to step up and become the number one ‘keeper at Deepdale. He hasn’t had a settled career so far with a succession of loan moves before making a permanent switch from Middlesbrough to Preston. Losing Rudd could give him a chance to finally gain a consistent run at a club over more than just a season.