As Rangers manager Michael Beale gets to work assessing his squad, the Ibrox side would do well to heed the lessons of last season as Celtic already make moves in the transfer market.
The Parkhead side reversed a substantial six point Rangers lead in the Scottish Premiership last season as some smart January acquisitions closed the gap at the top.
Rangers, in contrast, slept until the latter stages of the window and the additions of Amad Diallo and a perennially crocked Aaron Ramsey failed to herald the necessary impact.
This time around, the Parkhead side are already nine points clear in the Scottish Premiership and have already spent a reported £5m to secure the signings of two new players from January 1st.
Japanese defender Yuki Kobayashi has joined for around a reported £1.5m from Vissel Kobe whilst Canada right-back Alistair Johnston has signed for a reported £3.5m from FC Montreal.
That means Celtic have proactively spent £5m from a position of strength and – whilst several key players could leave in January – Rangers would do well to take note.
Rangers have to take Celtic transfer lesson seriously
As the Ibrox club revamp the management team there remains a lingering suspicion that this squad is in desperate need of a refresh that should’ve really happened this summer.
Whilst there are several players out injured – something which points to risky recruitment given several player’s medical histories – Rangers have an ageing squad the bulk of which has let supporters down repeatedly over the last four seasons.
Even if there is a sentiment that this Scottish Premiership season has already gone, Rangers need to close that gap on Celtic in the second half of the campaign and fans will look to the transfer market to help do this.
But as Celtic already begin to strengthen, Rangers need to learn the lessons of last season and understand that the January window can be a catalyst for a title charge if handled correctly.
At present, it’s the Parkhead club preparing for some chopping and changing in the upcoming window but Rangers fans will expect some irons in the fire amid complaints that we desperately need fresh blood at Ibrox.
Meanwhile, there are conflicting reports surrounding the future of one key Rangers star.