Discussions between key shareholders and American businessmen [Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe](https://www.rangersreview.co.uk/news/25016077.49ers-rangers-takeover-latest-news-updates-interviews/) continue. It is the story that has captured the imagination of the support. Here, **Chris Jack** answers your questions on the deal.
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**What is the timeline for the deal to be completed?**
The **Rangers Review** revealed earlier this month that initial documents had been exchanged following several weeks of discussions. Indeed, exploratory talks started as far back as October and those negotiations are ongoing. It is unlikely that every bit of paperwork will be signed and sealed before the end of the current campaign.
Given the complexity of the arrangement – especially the number of individual shareholders that are selling – then it is understandable that it will take some time. Sources close to the talks have given no indication of any bumps in the road, however. Broad agreements have been reached and there will be many drafts of the documents going through the hands of the lawyers before pen is to put paper.
It will take as long as it will take and the final one per cent can often be the most difficult one to secure. As it stands, there will be new faces in the directors’ box for next term. Change is coming at Ibrox.
**How much do you think is a realistic transfer budget for the summer if the takeover happens?**
This figure will make a great headline and spark plenty of debate and discussion but it is too early to say what the Americans will do in the window. There will need to be investment in the squad but there are so many variables right now – most notably the positions of sporting director and manager. Nils Koppen, the technical director, has started planning for the summer but what Rangers will spend remains up in the air.
What can be said for sure is that it will be done sensibly and sustainably. As ever, it is about how Rangers spend their money that is the most important thing rather than the quantum of the budget. Fans have seen, after all, the issues that poor recruitment can cause.
The Newcastle United example is a pertinent one to take note of. Owners having money is one thing, but being able to spend it is quite another. Don’t expect Rangers to go overboard in the first window given the financial framework regulations that are in place.
**Do you think the 49ers will already have a shortlist of managers?**
The list of names provided by various bookmakers over recent weeks haven’t exactly filled supporters with enthusiasm. Steven Gerrard is an obvious link to make given his previous success and Derek McInnes will always be touted for the position. The likes of Jose Mourinho and Rafa Benitez are also on the odds list.
The situation with Barry Ferguson is intriguing. There was little to suggest that his appointment as interim until the end of the campaign was actually an audition for him to land the job on a permanent basis. Ferguson has repeatedly played down that prospect but overcoming Fenerbahce and beating Celtic has shortened his odds. It still feels too early to seriously consider him but beating Athletic Club and another derby win could start the conversation.
Gretar Steinsson, the 49ers technical director, was at the matches with Fenerbahce and Celtic and will offer guidance into the process. Taking football advice is a shrewd move.
**What will the new owners need to invest - both at Ibrox and the training centre – for the infrastructure to become elite and over how long a period?**
The situation that Cavenagh and Marathe will walk into in the coming months is very different to the one that Dave King, John Gilligan and Paul Murray inherited a decade ago. Ibrox is not in the same state of dilapidation and Auchenhowie has not been neglected by the board as it was before regime change.
The Copland Stand fiasco will put some fans off the idea of renovation works at Ibrox but expect that to be back on the agenda at some point. Marathe has previously spoken about the need for clubs to use their facilities in a more productive way outside of a match day. And the fact that Rangers start each season with a financial disadvantage to Celtic is a situation that needs to be addressed.
The environment at Auchenhowie is not exactly shabby and every player in every squad wants for nothing in terms of nutrition, sports science and gym facilities. The new sporting director will have a remit to improve the offering. It sets the standard in Scotland but there is always room for expansion.
**Do you expect we will attract better sponsors after the takeover?**
There is room for improvement in every area on and off the field going forward and this will be a sector that the new owners will look at. Rangers reported a double-digit growth in their commercial revenue for the last financial year as £67million was brought into the club. In time, that figure should be expected to rise steadily.
Sean Jefferson, formerly of Manchester United, was hired by Patrick Stewart to assess that side of the business following his own appointment as chief executive officer. Karim Virani had replaced James Bisgrove but departed last year. Rangers are now recruiting for a chief commercial officer to be part of the senior leadership team.
Sponsorship will naturally be a main focus for the successful candidate. The move to Umbro shirts for the new season will be part of the strategy. The **Rangers Review** reported last year that the new deal with the [Kindred Group was a record-breakin](https://www.rangersreview.co.uk/news/24592564.rangers-secure-80-percent-increase-record-breaking-new-shirt-deal/)g one for the club.
The American market will naturally be one that Rangers will look to tap into going forward. Every contract and relationship will be reviewed in time and the network that the 49ers will bring to the table will have benefits off the park as well as on it.