Bolton set to beat Rangers to new signing as new issues emerges for Andrew Cavenagh
Rangers had been aiming to sign Luca Stephenson this summer after his successful loan spell at Dundee United.
Upon returning to Liverpool after two years at the Tangerines, Danny Rohl was hoping to bring the 22-year-old to Ibrox on a permanent deal.
However, Rangers face significant challenges, with multiple Championship sides also keen on the right-back.
Now, according to The Bolton News on 29 May, the Gers are set to miss out, with Bolton Wanderers set to win the race.
This should be a serious concern, with Rangers’ lack of pull this transfer window becoming a big issue.
Rangers’ lack of Champions League football clearly an issue
While Rangers have often missed out on players to other Championship sides, losing to Bolton will be a kick in the teeth.
The Wanderers have only just been promoted from League One and will be among the relegation favourites next season.
| Luca Stephenson's Scottish Premiership stats this season | Per 90 minutes |
| Goals | 0.18 |
| xG | 0.08 |
| Assists | 0.18 |
| xA | 0.13 |
| Clearances | 3.23 |
Therefore, for Stephenson to choose a move to Bolton over Rangers showcases how difficult Rohl is going to find it this window.
The failure to qualify for the Champions League has no doubt contributed to this, with the club still facing a potential Conference League campaign if they lose in their upcoming Europa League qualifiers.
Over the coming months, Rohl and the rest of the recruitment team will have to work hard to show potential targets that a move to Rangers is worthwhile, or they could find themselves left behind in the market.
What is the financial impact of missing out on the Champions League?
Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider that Rangers will have to improve their player trading after missing out on the Champions League.
He stated that there is a massive difference between the competition and the Europa League in terms of funds.
As a result, if Rangers wish to compete with Celtic financially, they will have to improve their transfer business this summer.
The Ibrox club recorded a £600,000 loss on player sales last season, while their Old Firm rivals made a £31.5million profit.
However, it remains to be seen if Celtic can make it to the Champions League’s league stage or if they will once again fail to win their playoff game like this campaign.