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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Celtic hero Moussa Dembele targeted by ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard

Steven Gerrard has been linked with a sensational swoop for former Celtic striker Moussa Dembele. 

The Rangers title winner is now the manager of Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia.

He's been getting to grips with his new job in the Middle East, with pre-season well underway ahead of the new campaign in early August.

The former Liverpool and England captain will have some refining of his squad to do before their first game, though. 

And as part of his recruitment drive, ex-Celtic star Dembele is said to be high on his wishlist. 

Renowned transfer guru Fabrizio Romano states that Al-Ettifaq have approached the Frenchman over a deal. 

The 27-year-old is out of contract after departing Lyon at the end of his deal last month. He is said to be considering his options, with clubs in Europe also interested.

Romano tweeted: "Saudi side Al Ettifaq approached Moussa Dembele a former OL striker is now available as free agent. Contacts ongoing with his agent Mamadi Fofana.

"Main focus, Jordan Henderson deal — Dembele, option as striker. Player considering opportunities in Saudi and Europe."

Dembele made a new for himself during his two years at Celtic working under Brendan Rodgers, particularly for his goalscoring record against Rangers.

In 2018, he was sold to Lyon for a fee of around £20million, which was a Scottish record at the time.

In recent years, he's spent most of his time in Ligue 1, although he did enjoy a short loan spell in La Liga with Atletico Madrid.

He's now on the lookout for a new path in his career though, and it appears he could link up with ex-Ibrox gaffer Gerrard in the Saudi Pro League.

As mentioned, Liverpool midfielder Henderson is another player Gerrard is keen to sign. 

It's claimed that his former Reds teammate could become his first capture at Al Ettifaq, as they aim to bag a marquee signing.

Henderson, 33, has two years left on his Anfield deal but it's thought wages up to quadruple the amount he receives at Liverpool are on the table.

Reports have suggested a deal could exceed £500,000 per week for Henderson with an initial two-year contract with the option of a third.

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