Rangers target former most sought-after striker in world football

Rangers are on high alert as Roma striker Andrea Belotti appears set to become a free agent this summer.

The 29-year-old Italian international’s contract with the Giallorossi expires at the end of the current campaign, triggering interest from clubs across Europe’s top leagues.

Belotti was once one of the most sought-after strikers in world football, with Torino president Urbano Cairo fending off sizable bids from sides in the English Premier League and La Liga during the player’s time with I Granata.

Cairo publicly stated Belotti would only be sold if his €100 million release clause was met, though a big-money move failed to materialise.

Belotti’s stock may have fallen in recent seasons but he remains a clinical finisher and proven goalscorer, attributes Rangers manager Michael Beale is keen to add to his squad.

Morelos is expected to depart Ibrox in the summer, leaving Beale with a void to fill up front. Signing a striker of Belotti’s calibre on a free transfer would represent shrewd business, providing experience and end product to Beale’s forward line at little financial cost.

Rangers target former most sought-after striker in world football

While Andrea Belotti turns 30 later this year, securing his services for an initial two or three-season contract could pay dividends in Rangers’ quest to overhaul Celtic at the summit of the Scottish Premiership.

Even if the move does not work out as hoped, the lack of a transfer fee means the financial hit to the club would be negligible.

With a number of top-flight suitors likely to rival Rangers for Belotti’s signature, Beale may have to act fast to land the prestigious free agent.

The recently posted pictures of Beale in Rome on his social media accounts has led to speculation of the club’s interest, and a swoop for Belotti would demonstrate the ambition and pulling power of Scotland’s most successful club on the continental stage.