Portsmouth and Shrewsbury are set to do battle for Rangers midfielder Ross McCrorie, with Pompey the favourites to land his signature according to the Glasgow Evening Telegraph.
McCrorie played 20 SPFL matches last season, but could find his chances limited following the arrival of Joe Aribo at Ibrox. That’s prompted the two League One sides to express their interest, but Fratton Park seems a likelier destination.
It’s likely he’ll move to the south coast, but the sticking point at the moment is a clause to buy at the end of the loan. Pompey are keen on ensuring they have an opportunity to purchase the midfielder once his temporary spell is up.
The 21-year-old is hot property, captaining Scotland’s Under 21 side having represented them from Under 15 to the current level. He’s previously spent time on loan with Ayr and Dumbarton as well as appearing 54 times for Rangers, 30 of those SPFL starts.
McCrorie predominately plays as a holding midfielder but can operate in the centre of defence if needed.
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In Pompey’s 4-2-3-1 formation, McCrorie would fit seamlessly into the two-man midfield around which the rest of the team gravitates.
He’s a special talent, that’s for sure. He’s only 21 but has over 50 outings for one of the biggest club sides in the UK, as well as progressing through the youth ranks at international level.
He could be in danger of stagnating at Ibrox, especially given the number of midfielders they have available now. A move seems sensible, but Kenny Jackett won’t be caught out like he was with Ben Thompson and Andre Green.
He’ll want a water-tight deal before he commits to giving the youngster a chance at Fratton Park.
