As Rangers chairman Dave King revealed that he’s set to step down in his role at Ibrox next season, he also suggested that part of the reason was the value of the squad he’s helped build at the club.
The South Africa-based businessman stands down after transforming the club on and off the field, saying “ad-hoc funding” is no longer a requirement at Ibrox.
Part of the reason for this is the perceived value of the Ibrox squad, which King revealed sporting director Ross Wilson believes currently sits at £55m “over our book value” and could potentially reach £103m.
“Based on discussions and offers that we have received from other clubs, I have had a personal comfort for some time that the value of our squad is significantly higher than the book value reflected on our balance sheet,” said King [Rangers].
“I therefore decided, initially for my own comfort, to request the new director of football, Ross Wilson, to give me his fair value estimate of the individual players making up the player pool.
“Ross completed this exercise in consultation with the manager and provided me with two estimates.
“The first is the estimate of present market value and the second included a projection as to where some of our players could get to if they continue to progress as expected.
“The present value of the squad reflects a significant uplift of £55m over our book value and the projected amount would yield an uplift of £103m if it eventuates.
“I know that these numbers are not scientific and we are certainly not holding anyone to them.
“But, they are estimates by two individuals who know the qualities of players and who know the market.”
So, how did Steven Gerrard and Ross Wilson reach this total?
You can start with Alfredo Morelos – who many believe is currently valued at over £25m [Scottish Sun] – and Ryan Kent – who Rangers splashed out £7m+ to bring to Ibrox.
Nigerian international Joe Aribo is another player who is considered a major asset to the Ibrox club, and only cost £300k.
On top of that, the likes of Glen Kamara have been linked with £8m+ moves to the Premier League [Herald], whilst Nikola Katic’s value has been protected with an improved contract.
Rangers have international assets such as Borna Barisic, who plays for Croatia, and Filip Helander, who plays for Sweden.
Then there are impressive first-team options such as James Tavernier – previously linked with £7m move down south [Bill Young] – Connor Goldson, Ryan Jack and Scott Arfield.
There’s also the likes of George Edmundson and Jordan Jones on the fringes of the first-team squad who have considerable potential, and an Academy bursting with talent and closing in on first-team chances.
Regardless of what any of Rangers’ rivals say, are Ross Wilson’s estimates really that far off?
