Watford manager Tom Cleverley has confirmed that Ryan Porteous is attracting interest from Scottish giants Rangers, as reported in Glasgow World.
Rangers are looking to strengthen a depleted defence and Scotland international Porteous is on their wanted list.
Who Is Ryan Porteous?
Porteous is a 25-year-old fullback who came through the ranks at Scottish Premiership side Hibernian. He made over 150 appearances for the Edinburgh side before moving south to Watford for a reported £450,000 fee.
Since the move in 2022, Porteous has played 80 times for Watford, was selected in the Scotland squad for Euro 2024 and was sent off in the 5-1 hammering handed out by Germany so missed the rest of Scotland’s tournament.
There have been rumours of a move away from Watford in January and they were intensified when he was left on the bench for the defeat to Sheffield United last week.
Cleverley Reacts To Speculation
Despite the scrutiny placed on Porteous’ lack of involvement against the Blades, his manager insists the defender is focused on Watford and available for selection. He told the Watford Observer:
“I spoke to Ryan this morning, and we cleared the air. I don’t know where the reports have come from, and I don’t think there are any quotes in the stories.”
“He is one of a number of our players that have attracted a little bit of interest, but right now Ryan is a Watford player and right in the thick of things for selection. He is professional and experienced enough that these things won’t take his eye off the ball.”
“He’s a Watford player. He’s available for selection and he’s fully focused on doing his job for Watford.”
Porteous is halfway through a four-year at Vicarage Road.
Writer’s View
Until the Sheffield United match, Porteous had not missed a game since the 3-0 defeat against Preston North End at the start of October so is very much a key player for Cleverley.
If Rangers can find the fee to persuade Watford, perhaps a return to Scotland to play for a huge club like Rangers may be too difficult for the 12-cap international to turn down.
A primary school teacher turned writer, Tom has been part of The Real EFL for two years. He focuses on predictions, deep dives, and insightful content.
