Rangers closing in on a move for 27-year-old African star – The right move by Gerrard?

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Why Bongani Zungu would be a fantastic fit at Rangers

According to Glasgow Live, Rangers are closing in on a move for Amiens midfielder Bongani Zungu ahead of the summer transfer window.

Zungu, 27, came through the ranks of Dynamos FC in South Africa and played for the University of Pretoria and Mamelodi Sundowns before moving to Portugal. He joined Vittoria Guimaraes’ B side in the summer of 2016 and represented the club’s senior team on 27 occasions.

His impressive performances earned him a move to France with SC Amiens in August 2017 and since then, he has been a regular member of the French outfit. He has also been a regular for the national side and has already made 24 appearances for South Africa. Earlier, La Liga side Real Mallorca were also interested in securing his services (h/t Glasgow Live).

Bongani Zungu impressed for Amiens this season (Getty Images)
Bongani Zungu impressed for Amiens this season (Getty Images)

With the Scottish league season done and dusted, the manager should focus on building a formidable squad ahead of next season. Having made two quick signings in the form of Ianis Hagi and Calvin Bassey, Rangers need to bring in reinforcements to other key areas as well.

Zungu could provide depth in Rangers’ midfield

One key area the manager needs to strengthen is the defensive midfield position. Though the Gers have a plethora of attack-minded midfielders in the ranks, Glen Kamara would be the only option available in the deep-lying role after Andy Halliday leaves after his contract expiry in the summer.

Finnish international Kamara has done a decent job so far, featuring in 39 games across all competitions this season but has done it without a proper backup. Halliday was rarely used by the manager. Thus, a defensive midfielder is a must in the summer.

Bongani Zungu (R) in action against AS Monaco in Ligue 1 (Getty Images)
Bongani Zungu (R) in action against AS Monaco in Ligue 1 (Getty Images)

In that regard, signing Zungu would be a good move by the club. The South African international has been brilliant despite his club’s abysmal performance. His inclusion to Gerrard’s squad would bring healthy competition, whilst also adding depth to the squad.

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Verdict

At 27, he is at the right time to take his career to the next level. At the same time, with Halliday looking set to leave, Rangers’ numbers in the midfield would be reduced. And Zungu can provide them with some much-needed quality in the middle of the park. Thus, signing the South African international seems to be a smart move by the club.