Rangers fans are rarely united on opinions, however, the money spent on transfers this summer has drawn almost unanimous criticism in terms of value for money.
Similar to Pedro Caixinha’s summer window, it appeared as if the manager was given carte blanche to sign personal favourites instead of a club-based and long-term approach.
With Rangers posting another, albeit small, profit in the annual accounts, the area of concern remains player trading with chairman John Bennett insistent on improving our transfer business, as told to the club’s official website.
Rangers transfers scrutinised as John Bennett makes trading claim
Revenue appears to be consistent with season ticket sales remaining high and group stage football in Europe key to enhancing the money coming into the club.
After record sales including Nathan Patterson and Calvin Bassey though, Rangers need to find consistency in the transfer market, with Bennett hinting at key appointments about to be made:
“I have talked previously of the four components of financial sustainability: season ticket sales, commercial revenue, European football and player trading.
“While the first of these components will never be taken for granted, it is the fourth that requires attention.
“Player trading will always be inherently volatile, yet Rangers must replace sporadic “wins” with systematic success.
“It is a given that it all begins with player recruitment.
“This is an area of priority for your Board, and we anticipate that the coming months will see a strengthening in the leadership and processes of our football department, specifically with this in mind.”
Rangers have been very hit and miss in the transfer market in recent years.
For every Joe Aribo or Calvin Bassey, there is a Ryan Kent or Cyriel Dessers.
It’s not just about getting value for money when it is spent, it is about identifying players, like Nicolas Raskin, Danilo and even Rabbi Matondo, who can be bought for relatively low fees, developed, and then sold.
In Danilo’s case, we had to spend a bit more, a reported deal that could rise to £6m but, so far, his goal contribution suggests that he will be worth it.
Spending money doesn’t always guarantee success but we can’t spend £4m+ on punts and gambles.
A sporting director is key to vetoing players like Sam Lammers who Michael Beale followed throughout his career but simply wasn’t needed given the players already in the squad like Ianis Hagi, Tom Lawrence, Todd Cantwell and Alex Lowry.
Jose Cifuentes’ best position is also as an advance number eight or number ten.
Ross Wilson left the club in April so, hopefully, Rangers transfer strategy is about to get new life breathed into it with an appointment that the board has to get right.
