Nils Koppen will be fully aware of the situation that he has inherited as Rangers technical director.
A new player trading model was devised with Philippe Clement knowing that his squad had to be ripped up and rebuilt.
The manager has yet to see the improvements that he promised, but a big money signing in MLS has shown just how up against it Rangers now are.
Kevin Denkey makes record MLS move after Rangers links
Reported as a target in the January transfer window earlier in 2024, Kevin Denkey is on the move, however, not to Chelsea as had been tipped.
Instead, for a record MLS fee of £12.7m, the Togo international has signed for FC Cincinnati.
General manager, Chris Albright, was on hand to announce the huge deal for American football via Cincinnatti’s website:
“He is a talented, young striker, with exceptional character. Kévin has been one of the most productive forwards in Europe over the last two years, showcasing elite physicality, finishing ability, and work ethic.
“This is a historic transfer for our club and our league, and it’s a tremendous credit to our ownership group, which continues to invest in this club’s ambition to compete for trophies.”
How much could Rangers have signed Denkey for earlier?
Denkey isn’t the only Rangers-linked target to head Stateside. Midtjylland’s Evander also moved to MLS for a fee outwith the budget of the Light Blues in what has become a recurring theme.
Increased attendances and improved TV deals have seen MLS overtake the SPFL on a massive scale to the extent that Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets are all playing for the same team.
What Rangers have to do is improve the scouting and recruitment so that players like Denkey are signed before they hit the big time.
Cercle Brugge signed Denkey on a free transfer when he was 20-years old, and he is the latest example of a player who Rangers scouted but didn’t make a move on.
A move that has proven costly.
