‘Rangers takeover to be announced within weeks as 49ers overcome major hurdle’
Rangers are closing in on a takeover deal as they look to embark on a new era following their disappointing season.
The Scottish giants are set for a campaign without silverware after being knocked out of the Europa League and failing in the domestic cup competitions.
They are also 15 points behind Old Firm rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership table, with Brendan Rodgers’s side needing just one point to secure their fourth straight league title.
Barry Ferguson has been overseeing matters on the pitch since Philippe Clement was sacked in February, but he faces competition from several managers to land the job permanently.
Rangers are fully aware change is needed to turn the tide after Ibrox chiefs have held talks with potential new investors over the past few months.
The 49ers Enterprises-backed group has agreed a deal in principle to take the reins at Ibrox.
The US consortium, which includes Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe and health insurance tycoon Andrew Cavenagh, is looking to secure a majority takeover and wants control of the boardroom.
Rangers handed takeover boost after Leeds United twist
In order to take control of the Ibrox boardroom, the prospective owners need to secure a 51 per cent stake in the club.
Reports have suggested former director Sandy Easdale holds a potentially decisive say as Cavenagh and Marathe aim to purchase a controlling stake.
However, the Rangers Review reported on 20 April Easdale’s 2.25 per cent stake is not needed to complete the deal as the 51 per cent has already been secured.
That ensures the 49ers-backed group has overcome a major hurdle, with very few obstacles now standing in their way of taking over at Ibrox.
Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League has also put to bed any further takeover concerns after there were fears the English Football League (EFL) could block the Rangers deal due to its ownership restrictions.
It now feels like only a matter of time before the legal work is concluded, with the new owners likely to be in place within the next few weeks.
| Rangers shareholders | Shares (%) |
| Dave King | 13 |
| Douglas Park | 11.5 |
| George Taylor | 10.2 |
| Stuart Gibson | 9.5 |
| John Bennett | 7.1 |
| Julian Wolhardt | 6.7 |
| John Halsted | 6 |
49ers to give Rangers manager funds to rival Celtic
Football Insider revealed on 20 April Rangers’s new manager will be given the financial backing to challenge Celtic next season after falling behind their rivals.
Steven Gerrard is currently the favourite to land the job following his previous work at Ibrox, while Jose Mourinho and Russell Martin are also in the frame.
A decision isn’t expected to be made until the end of this season as Rangers chiefs look to make the right appointment to take the club forward again.
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