Jon McLaughlin has become Rangers third signing of the summer after sealing his move from League 1 side Sunderland, his refusal to extend his contract for the remaining matches of the 2019/20 season made him available for free, as reported by BBC Sport.
Steven Gerrard has now made two signings that have gone under the radar with the transfers of both Calvin Bassey and now McLaughlin only really being tipped by Football Insider close to when the deals were announced.
McLaughlin was delighted to make the move – where he will compete for the number one jersey with Allan McGregor – and after putting pen to paper on a two year deal told Rangers TV:
“It’s a very proud moment for myself and for the family.
“Knowing what a massive club it is, and speaking with the manager and his staff, and knowing the vision and the direction they have, the opportunity to be a part of that and hopefully be a part of something special here was what sold it to me.”
Gerrard also welcomed the addition of someone so experienced and backed him to provide experienced competition to McGregor:
“Jon is a vastly experienced professional who will add strength and depth to our squad.
“His experience in the SPFL will stand by him as he continues to fight for a place in the Scotland squad.”
Although not a priority, Gerrard now knows that he has a competent and trust worthy player deputising for McGregor who, if called upon, is of the required standard to maintain the quality in the side, rather than it being weekend in the absence of a key player – which has been an issue in the past.
Other than the signing of Ianis Hagi – which had been on the cards for some time – the arrivals of Bassey and McLaughlin have covered for the various departures earlier in the window and have immediately strengthened the bench.
The Rangers gaffer will now turn his attention to two or three players that can make an impact on the first XI as he looks to deliver the Scottish Premiership title in what is sure to be a rollercoaster season.