Rangers mentioned as reported £5m ex-Man United star confirms latest move on social media
05/05/2024 22:20
Rangers links have never been too far away from Middlesbrough star Paddy McNair.
Ever since the versatile defender turned midfielder came through the ranks at Manchester United, the Ulsterman's boyhood links to Ibrox have always had fans keeping a a firm eye on the player.
Now 29-years-old, only this week at Rangers News we were discussing how solid an option an out-of-contract Paddy McNair could be heading into the summer window.
And now, as the Northern Ireland international provides a big update over his future, a couple of transfer reports have once again mentioned Rangers as a potential destination.
McNair to leave Middlesbrough
Taking to Instagram, Paddy McNair has announced that he will be leaving Middlesbrough at the end of the season.
The 67-times capped Northern Ireland star has been at the Riverside since 2018 and has been described as a 'loyal servant' by current manager Michael Carrick.
Taking to social media, classy McNair has praised the Championship side and said he's 'looking forward to the next chapter'.
Middlesbrough have also played tribute to the versatile player in a special statement celebrating Paddy McNair's contribution to the club.
"Paddy has been a great servant to the club and an important figure during my time here," said manager Michael Carrick.
“We wish him all the best for the future.”
Rangers move 'would appeal' to Ulsterman
Where Rangers come in surrounds a couple of reports.
Firstly, in the Northern Echo the newspaper's chief sports writer Scott Wilson has referenced 'links to Rangers' in a news article.
Claiming that Middlesbrough paid Sunderland £5m to sign Paddy McNair in 2018, the report claims the defender-turned-midfielder will be an 'attractive proposition' as a free agent this summer.
The Belfast Telegraph and journalist Keith Bailie have also linked Rangers with a move for McNair, claiming that 'a move to Glasgow is likely to appeal' to the Ulsterman.
That report also mentions Robbie Keane's side Maccabi Tel Aviv and Italian club Como as potential suitors.
A passionate and popular player wherever he has played, Paddy McNair's all or nothing style has endeared him to supporters at Old Trafford, the Stadium of Light, and the Riverside.
Come through at Man United in 2014, the Nothern Irish star made 27 appearances for the Red Devils before moving to Sunderland in 2016.
Making 28 appearances for the Black Cats over two seasons, McNair would go on to rack up 219 games for Middlesbrough including 25 this campaign.
