Pundit view: Transfer policy change at Rangers amid ‘really hectic’ end to window at Ibrox

Pundit view: Transfer policy change at Rangers amid ‘really hectic’ end to window at Ibrox

Rangers’ signing approach changed in the January transfer window,

with young players with sell-on value being pursued, according to Tam McManus.

The expert stated on The Football Show for PLZ Soccer on January 29 that Philippe Clement is attempting to bring in developing players now rather than finished products,

following the loan signing of Mohamed Diomande, 22, with an option to buy.

This is in addition to the expected arrival of two 20-year-old South Americans, Jefte and Oscar Cortes,

in what host Peter Martin predicts will be a “really hectic” finale to the January transfer window at Ibrox.

Martin was quoted as saying: “Clearly I think it’s going to be really hectic for Rangers to try and supplement that squad to make the battle for the title, because that’s exactly what it’s all about.”

McManus responded: “Yeah, like the manager mentioned, they’re in three competitions,

they’re going to play a lot of games from Thursday to Sunday, and they’ll require a big group of players.

“I believe he is attempting to get the fringe players out who he does not see as part of the Rangers’ future.

He’s attempting to bring in players, including two 20-year-olds who have already signed and a 21-year-old (22).

“So I believe there has been a change in Rangers’ signing philosophy.

They’re attempting to sign younger talents to potentially sell,

whereas in the past they might have gone for older players, the finished article.”

Long-term Planning

If the Rangers’ player trading model is to succeed, the club will need to purchase low and sell high,

or, in the instance of Diomande, buy reasonably high and sell even higher.

As long as the recruitment department has identified the correct targets,

that is acceptable; but, there is inherent risk in hiring smart but unproven young people.

Clement must strike a balance because a league title is currently at stake

so if the likes of Diomande, Jefte and Cortes need time to develop it could see the opportunity lost.

A proven commodity in front of goal, combined with upcoming arrivals elsewhere,

might provide the ideal combination of youth and experience to strengthen this side as it pursues a treble.

Lawrence Shankland has been the most extensively talked option,

but it appears that he will not be signed this month.

However, if the Rangers sign two or three young players who can be sold for millions of dollars in a few years,

they should be able to afford the rare big-ticket veteran.

So far, youth has been the order of the day, as evidenced by Fabio Silva’s loan move,

but whether young or old, another number nine to back up Cyriel Dessers would be useful before the deadline.

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