Gregory Vignal has backed Rangers to make moves in the transfer market for a new central defender after Nikola Katic was ruled out for months with a cruciate injury.

The French former left-back worked as a scout for the Ibrox outfit whilst balancing his role as women's team manager at the club, so he knows the thought process behind Gers' recruitment. And, after Katic was crocked in pre-season training, Vignal believes the management staff in Steven Gerrard and Gary McAllister will have immediately considered adding to their ranks to replace the valuable Croatian.

Gers have already added Calvin Bassey to their side who can play left-back and centre-half, but Vignal still believes they could be doing with more options. Filip Helander and George Edmundson are also already in the squad, as well as Connor Goldson. And a new hitman could also be a priority for the Light Blues who have relied heavily on Alfredo Morelos's goals in recent seasons.

"Maybe they will need another centre-half after Katic got injured," Vignal said. "They've signed Bassey but it's important there's competition and it's important to double up every position. It's the same with Alfredo Morelos, they might need another striker. I do think the squad is good enough to win something but they may need one or two new players."

Vignal has been impressed with Borna Barisic following his terrific season last term. And he reckons the defender can go on again to have another good campaign. "I've watched Borna a lot obviously as he plays in the same position I did," he added. "We spoke together a bit. He's a fit guy and I think he'll get better and better. He has a strong mentality which has helped him a lot. He can bring a lot to the team this season, but I think competition at left-back is very important because it means he'll have to fight for his position. Otherwise you don't make progress as a player.

On Barisic potentially making Gers good money down the line, Vignal added: "Of course [he can]. I think everybody would be happy about this."