Stay or sell, keep or cash-in? That is the major question facing Rangers in regard to several key players this Summer.
In effect, that period starts now with decisions imminent on several important first team players who will very soon be out of contract. That applies to the likes of Connor Goldson, Allan McGregor, Steven Davis and Leon Balogun who all have much in common despite differing situations at different stages of their careers.
Other stars like Calvin Bassey, Ryan Kent and James Tavernier will have attracted interest after the season they had.
Rangers legend Mark Hateley believes that a pivotal fortnight is set to follow, with the deals to come having a massive say on the new season, including the names and details of any new signings to be unveiled in blue.
The Englishman stated, “Next year it will be what happens in this summer, right now, in the next two weeks, the way that Rangers are going to go right now – whether they are going to sell and then bring in other people, that’s going to be the decision.”
“I heard people talk about, ‘what are we going to do this summer, are we going to be selling players or strengthening?”
“What we’re looking at now, do Rangers go and strengthen from this position of strength or will they have to sell to do that? I think that’s the next question.”
Business
Much of the plan will have been agreed already, but Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Ross Wilson need a high success rate in the weeks ahead, more than ever. Some players will move on, to be replaced, but it is essential that genuine quality is added to the squad. Young players like Alex Lowry and Charlie McCann are ready to contribute, no fillers are needed. It is quality that will make the difference domestically and in Europe.
As intimated by Hateley, the time is now for smart and early business. Watch this space.