In what in one of the most surprising transfer reports so far this month, Israeli side Hapoel Be’er Sheva are said to be lining up a move to take Josh McPake from Rangers.
As runners up in the Premier League, Be’er Sheva will play in the Europa Conference League qualifiers, providing the potential of continental football for a player who hasn’t quite lived up to his potential after a few loans in both Scotland and England, over recent seasons.
20-year old McPake spent the first park of last season at League One Morecambe under now St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson, before a spell at League Two Tranmere Rovers. Now, he will return to Auchenhowie to be assessed by Giovanni van Bronckhorst and the Rangers coaches, but it appears almost certain that his future will not be at Ibrox.
Having signed a three-year contract at this stage, 12 months ago, a further loan deal could be in order and it has been suggested that a move to Israel could be part made up in that way, as reported by Football Scotland:
“Josh McPake could be set for a sensational move to Israel with Hapoel Be’er Sheva.”
“The Premier League club have a keen interest in Rangers‘ attacking player and are looking to bring him in on loan.”
“Terms of any loan for the 20-year-old would also come with an option to buy should he perform to his capabilities for the club.”
Time
To date, McPake has had five loan experiences with none leading to a breakthrough so far, in terms of the Rangers first team squad. This coming training period over the next month is quite possibly the last chance for the winger, despite his deal extending to 2024.
There will be some intrigue regarding the reported interest from Israel, but a move much closer to home would seem to be a better fit for the player to push on in terms of senior football, whether that is a further loan or a permanent move away from Ibrox.