Niko Katic desperate for Rangers transfer return as Ibrox favourite ready to answer SOS call from Clement
Former Ibrox hero Niko Katic is ready to return to Glasgow and answer Philippe Clement’s Rangers defensive crisis.
The Bosnia international currently plays with FC Zurich but could be set to quit the Swiss club this month. His agents are holding talks with several clubs - including an English Championship outfit - as they ponder a January switch.
But Record Sport understands the 28-year-old centre-back has made clear his preferred option would be a move back to Ibrox. Katic was one of Steven Gerrard’s first signings as Light Blues boss back in 2018 and gained cult status by scoring an Old Firm winner at Parkhead 18 months later. However, his Gers career was halted by a serious ACL injury and he was allowed to join Zurich in the summer of 2022 following a year on loan with Hajduk Split.
READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE as Celtic and Rangers plus Aberdeen, Hearts and Hibs eye signings
But the move to the Swiss Super League has allowed Katic to rediscover his best form - also opening up the opportunity for international recognition after he switched allegiances from his native Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina. And he’s emerged as a potential target for Clement this week after ex-Gers skipper Craig Moore - who now works as an agent - this week suggested the commanding stopper would be the perfect man to plug the gaps in the Gers defence.
Clement is down to the bare bones at the back with centre-backs John Souttar, Leon Balogun and Nana Kasanwirjo, as well as captain James Tavernier, all laid low by injury.
A source close to the player’s representatives told Record Sport: “We’ve had nothing concrete yet but we’ve seen some stories in the media and of course, Niko would like it a lot if he could return to Rangers.
“We are currently in negotiations with some clubs, one also from England. But if Rangers knock on the door, that would be the priority for Nikola. He still has 18 months remaining on his contract in Zurich. But If it is meant for him to return to Rangers, he will be there.”
Moore certainly believes it would be a wise move for Clement.
Speaking to Go Radio, the nine-in-a-row legends said: ”Interesting one. Central defender who I think Rangers need and a player that has crossed our desks in the last days is Katic. A former Rangers player.
"Obviously was very, very solid at the club and unfortunately picked up an ACL injury and then ended up in Croatia and all that sort of stuff to get his fitness. How Rangers supporters would feel towards a player like Katic, I think it is important that whatever player - if Rangers do look to bring in a central defender - needs to hit the ground running.
"There is no time transition of three or four months. It is now. You've got to deliver now. He would be a player that would certainly fit that profile."
