Rangers could spend big on new signing after £35m development - 'Don't rule it out'
Rangers could be tempted to spend big on a new signing ahead of the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Derek McInnes is believed to be happy with his squad as things stand after a £35million outlay in the summer transfer window, when he oversaw deals for 14 incoming players.
As a result, there are no plans to be active in the mid-season window, as the boss would be content to see out the season with the squad currently available to him.
However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, further injuries or unforeseen circumstances could mean Rangers are forced to act.
Already this season, the Ibrox club have lost the likes of Youssef Chermiti and Lawrence Shankland to long-term injuries, and additional blows could become a concern.
There are also concerns about a number of players on the fringes of the squad, and potential departures or opportunities to upgrade are unlikely to be ignored.
What transfer plans are in place at Rangers?
Former Aberdeen CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider on 9 October that Rangers are making positive progress with their new model of trading players at Ibrox.
Buying young players at low prices and selling for significant profits will take priority for Rangers, and means they could see big-name exits in January and beyond.
Should any key players be tempted away, alongside potential injuries or drops in form, then they will be prepared to act despite their current plans for a quiet window.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "We can never rule anything out in the January transfer window, you never know what might happen.
"Rangers aren't expecting much activity in January unless they are forced into the market, but there is a chance they could spend big on new signings if circumstances require it.
"Whether that's injuries, problems with certain players, or maybe interest in some of their own players as well, they might be forced to do some business in January.
"They have spent heavily in the last few windows as well, £35million in this summer window with 14 new players coming into the building as well.
"So look, nothing drastic is needed for Rangers in this upcoming January transfer window, but there is every chance they could be tempted to make a move if they need to."
What is Rangers' priority in the January window?
With Rangers currently anticipating a quiet transfer window, there is set to be a renewed focus on keeping hold of their best players, at least until the mid-season window closes.
After a strong run of form at Ibrox, a number of McInnes' top performers are attracting high-profile interest from elsewhere, but there are no plans to lose players.
For example, former Man United scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 15 October that Rangers are determined to block moves for Olwethu Makhanya despite growing interest.
The 22-year-old has been outstanding under McInnes since his £3million move from MLS outfit Philadelphia Union, and is already being tipped for a move away.
However, Rangers have no plans to see him move on at least in the mid-season window, and believe he will play an important role in their plans for the rest of the season.