Rangers signed towering centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez from Peterborough for £3 million in the summer.
Let’s face it, the defender signed from League 1 wasn’t the most popular new transfer in the world.
Many Gers fans were critical of the signing, as they believed he didn’t look assured and was prone to mistakes.
Fast forward to today, and Fernandez has slowly but surely started to silence his critics, showcasing the attributes of an elite defender.
Peterborough Director of Football, Barry Fry, believes Rangers could sell Fernandez for £30 million if a club were to be interested, as reported by the Scottish Sun.
Fernandez is a huge presence at the back for Gers, and here’s why he could play in Europe’s top five leagues.
All the attributes for success
Standing at 6ft4, Fernandez has the sheer size to play at the heart of defence in any of Europe’s top five leagues.
He has scored an impressive five goals from set pieces this season, offering a genuine threat at every corner kick.
To be successful in Europe’s top five leagues, a defender must have the pace to back up their size and strength.
Fernandez has clocked top speeds of 34.21 km/h in the Europa League this season, proving he can play in a high defensive line.
The defender is battle-hardened away from Scottish football, testing himself against elite competition in the Europa League.
It’s imperative that Fernandez can play with the ball at his feet in Europe’s top five leagues.
He completes 69.2% of his dribbles and 87.9% of his passes.
With how much top defenders sell for these days, Fernandez could be a steal at £30 million.
Rangers could need the Fernandez money
There is no question that this season has shown how far away the club is from dominance in Scotland.
The Gers have drawn 12 games in the Premiership this season, showcasing a lack of firepower.
Selling Fernandez for £30 million would help the Bears bolster their attacking options and could bring in some midfield reinforcements.
The fans want success on all fronts, but the squad is too thin in quality to ensure that.
Fernandez would be a huge miss, but the positives of having money to spend will far outweigh the negatives.
It’s time for an overhaul at the club, and selling Fernandez for big money could be the start.
With Celtic far from superior, it’s important that Rohl gets the backing now to get the club winning trophies again.
