Rangers two signing plans revealed after Cyriel Dessers twist – sources
Rangers’ transfer plans hinge on qualification for the league phase of the Champions League, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed two versions of shortlists have been drawn up at Ibrox with plans dependent on which European competition they slot into for the 2024-25 campaign.
Sources say it would be a “major blow” if Philippe Clement’s side slipped into the Europa League.
Rangers started their qualification campaign with an away clash against Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday (6 August), before hosting the Ukrainian side at Hampden Park next week.
Cyriel Dessers’ dramatic 94th-minute equaliser earned Rangers a crucial first-leg draw with Dynamo Kyiv in their bid to qualify for the Champions League.
If victorious over two legs, they will face a play-off round against FC Salzburg or FC Twente starting on 20-21 August – the last obstacle to a place in the league phase.
If they lose against Dynamo Kyiv, Rangers will drop into the league phase of the Europa League.
Champions League failure would mean ‘major blow’ to Rangers plans
Football Insider revealed earlier this year that league phase qualification in the expanded Champions League could add at least £20million to the Rangers budget.
Sources have also told Football Insider (6 August) that Clement has prioritised deals for a new striker and winger in the remainder of the summer window.
Meanwhile, the future of several Gers players still hangs in the balance with weeks remaining before that deadline, with Cyriel Dessers and Todd Cantwell among the stars linked with exits.
Rangers kicked off the 2024-25 campaign in underwhelming fashion on Saturday (3 August), drawing 0-0 away at Kilmarnock.
The Glasgow club must also currently play their home games at Hampden Park due to renovation delays at Ibrox.
In other news, Gers tell senior trio to find new clubs.
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