Michael Beale admits speculation over Todd Cantwell’s arrival as his first Rangers signing isn’t “that far off the track” as he again talked up the Norwich City midfielder who is free to leave Carrow Road.
The 24-year-old has been told he isn’t part of David Wagner’s plans at the Canaries and has been heavily linked with a move to Ibrox. And, speaking ahead of Sunday’s Viaplay Cup semi-final against Aberdeen, Beale said: “I like Cantwell a lot. He's a player with a lot of ability and there will be a lot of interest in him. I can’t say much more but don’t think you guys are that far off the track with what you are all insinuating.
“I’m pleased with where we are at in the window, these things take time. I didn’t think anyone would be in before the weekend. I have been very busy along with Ross (Wilson) this week. These things are never as fast as fans want but I am very positive. My bit is done, if that makes sense. Now it's over to the other people to finalise the things. But as far as I can see I'm really pleased with the way two or three things are going. I didn't want to disrupt the group before Sunday.
“I want anyone who joins us to be a core player and help us build for the next few seasons. I’m really pleased following chats with the board and across the club. We are all aligned. It’s important to make good choices now, not just for six months but for the next two or three years.”
Beale admits new signings, a place in the Viaplay Cup final and the next round of the Scottish Cup – Gers face St Johnstone next weekend in the fourth round – are his three targets for the month of January.
Antonio Colak is touch and go for the Dons clash at Hampden and Beale said: “This month, we want to be in a final, in the next round of the cup and recruit players that help us re-energise the team. When you are here, you have to take every opportunity you can to get towards trophies. You have to go win trophies at Rangers. I am aware of this.
“We are playing an opponent that knows us well. Both games have had goals. We are only focused on winning this one before we think about the final. Every manager has to perform at this club. I’m a very lucky man to get to come in and experience a semi final with over 35,000 Rangers fans at Hampden. This is a real big week for us with over 55,000 fans backing us at three Venus away from Ibrox.
“John Souttar trained all week and is ahead of schedule. This week is too soon and expect him around the squad for St Johnstone which is good news. Colak had a slight problem and is touch and go for this weekend. Kemar Roofe is ready to go. He is a really high quality player.”
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