Rangers are in the process of finalising a list of signing targets and with the January transfer window now open, they will be eager to make up ground on Scottish Premiership leaders Celtic.
The Ibrox club are currently nine points behind their Glasgow rivals, but are now starting a new era under new boss Michael Beale, and the former QPR head coach is determined to put his own stamp on this squad. He can make a start on that during the window after stating he is on the hunt for “two or three” new additions.
Speaking last week, the Englishman said: “I definitely want to bring in players but they have to be the right players. If someone is coming into the building you should view it that they’re coming into start. If they’re not and they are for later on I will be honest about it. We don’t need more squad players, we need players to improve the starting 11.
“I want John Souttar fit, I want Ridvan (Yilmax), Ianis Hagi, Tom Lawrence, Kemar Roofe and Antonio Colak fit too. That would be a start and, if I can add two or three more to it, then its game on inside the building. You have to earn your shirt. This will be a big month, but there is no point in bringing in anyone short-term to the end of the season to appease myself or the fans.
“We need people to come in here who are going to be big players for Rangers for the next two or three years and they don’t just grow on trees. We need to have a look but I have some people in mind.”
With that in mind, we have taken a look at some of the latest rumours, assessing which transfers are likely and which are unlikely as the window nears.
5. James Wilson (Hearts)
No picture for this one, but Hearts youngster James Wilson is said to be of interest, with the Gers opening talks earlier this month, according to reports. The 15-year-old frontman could be a shrewd addition for the future. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
6. Jobe Bellingham (Birmingham City)
Jude Bellingham’s younger brother has been linked with a move to Ibrox as he continues to gain first-team experience with Birmingham. However, as you would expect, there is plenty of competition, and for that reason, Gers’ chances of landing the youngster in January are rated unlikely. | Getty Images
7. Ryan Porteous (Hibernian)
Hibs centre-back Porteous is an outside option for Rangers. The Scotland cap has also played in a midfield role this season and Michael Beale confirmed he is a fan, but there is said to be plenty of English Championship and Serie A interest, with Udinese leading the race. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
8. Lawrence Shankland (Hearts)
Shankland’s scoring stats in a Jambos shirt are impressive and Rangers are reportedly ‘keeping an eye’ on the Scotland international as a potential replacement for Alfredo Morelos. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group