Rangers ‘can only be impressed’ by Blackpool forward Jerry Yates following speculation surrounding his future, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The 25-year-old has been linked to several clubs in recent weeks following an outstanding start to the current campaign with Ibrox sounded out as a potential destination.
What is the latest news involving Yates?
A recent report from the Scottish Sun claimed that Rangers were amongst ten clubs scouting Yates as he bagged a brace and provided an assist in Blackpool’s Lancashire derby victory over Preston the other weekend.
Representatives from the likes of Brentford, Bournemouth, West Brom and Watford were also reportedly in attendance at Bloomfield Road.
It’s understood that the Tangerines are set to demand £5 million to sanction the sale of their prized asset, and they will surely be hoping a bidding war ensues between his potential suitors.
Yates only has 18 months remaining on his current contract, and the Blackpool hierarchy may view the upcoming January window as their last opportunity to receive a substantial fee for him.
What has O’Rourke said about Yates?
O’Rourke has informed GiveMeSport that he believes the Gers will have been excited by Yates’ ‘red-hot form’ in 2022/23.
He said: “I think they can only be impressed by his performances. He's been in red-hot form for Blackpool of late, and he's scoring goals at a prolific rate.
“He’s the top goalscorer in the Championship with nine goals. I think he got two goals and an assist against Preston the other weekend as well, so he's in really good form.”
Would Yates be a good signing?
Yates moved to Blackpool from boyhood club Rotherham United in 2020 and registered 20 goals and six assists in 44 League One appearances in his maiden campaign, firing them to promotion.
The versatile attacker then racked up 11 goal contributions in 39 Championship outings last term and has elevated his game to new heights this time around.
Blackpool manager Michael Appleton has moved Yates to the left-wing rather than his usual striker role in recent weeks, and the switch in position appears to have got the best out of him.
Yates has bagged seven goals in his last five league games, taking his tally up to eight strikes and two assists in 16 second-tier outings.
With both Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent due to become free agents next summer, Rangers may have identified an ideal replacement for at least one of their dynamic duo.