Michael Beale previously stated that he wants any new additions this month to have the necessary credentials to make the desired impact at Ibrox, with this quality especially required in the middle to front areas of the pitch.
Plenty has been said about talks with potential new arrivals leading to an expectation of new faces to follow very soon, as well as the basics of the eye test when watching this current Rangers team which shows the need for more.
In the last transfer window, seven arrivals materialised but a combination of injury and terrible form has ensured a less than adequate collective return. Michael Beale has ensured a better standard of performance but there is a need for freshness which can only be enabled with the appropriate injection of quality, now.
In playing catch up with Celtic, there is no margin for error across the next couple of transfer windows.
The goalkeeping situation is one that needs careful action but unless something very unexpected happens, the current triumvirate of Allan McGregor, Jon McLaughlin and Robby McCrorie are likely to remain for the rest of this season. On Sunday against Aberdeen, McGregor was far from convincing, reflecting the current unease.
Arguably, the more direct need at this moment in time is between middle and front. Game changers, winners and those who can be relied upon when it matters. In going behind against Aberdeen, Rangers were once again required to stage a comeback with the equaliser not coming until the hour mark.
Again, like the team, Ryan Jack came good in the second half but is this enough in such a role? Malik Tillman continues to impress but at just 20 and given his loan status, he should not be carrying full responsibility to produce the goods. John Lundstram is not on form just now, as well as playing through a complaint that has required painkillers. That can’t last.
Up top, Michael Beale has not been able to call upon a fully fit, firing striker. Alfredo Morelos is trying but toiling, Antonio Colak is injured again and Kemar Roofe is seemingly cursed, as good as his impact was to secure the winning goal to book an Old Firm cup final next month.
The Rangers boss said recently, “I think one or two players maybe coming in from Premier League clubs or clubs around Europe with a real good profile that will certainly help us. I want to turn the dial-up in the building.”
That is a description which fits Ryan Kent who is fizzing once again under Beale, with high hopes of what can follow, but there need is for more like him to come via a couple of new arrivals who are ready to hit the ground running with a hunger to match.