The versatile Dundee United man featured at Ibrox in their 4-2 defeat
Liverpool talent Luca Stephenson has been identified as one possible Rangers transfer target ahead of the summer, it’s been claimed
The versatile 22-year old capable of playing in defence and midfield was on loan at Dundee United last season, which was extended for another year in the summer after impressing on Tayside. Stephenson has recorded three goal contributions in as many games for the Tangerines recently after he set up Zac Sapsford for United’s second in their 4-2 defeat at Ibrox last Saturday.
During the season, Rangers have secured a new deal for John Souttar and are in talks to extend the contract of backup goalkeeper, Liam Kelly. However, the club are also looking externally ahead of the summer, and Liverpool man Stephenson could be one they set eyes on. His ability to possibly cover or replace captain James Tavernier is highlighted amid future uncertainty around the skipper.
Luca Stephenson identified as Rangers transfer target
According to Football Insider: “James Tavernier looks even more likely to leave Rangers at the end of his contract this summer as they line up a move to sign Liverpool right-back Luca Stephenson. It looks as if Danny Rohl is planning for his exit, with Rangers plotting a move to sign Liverpool youngster Stephenson after his impressive loan spell at Dundee United ends.”
Stephenson was already in Rohl’s plans before United’s trip to Govan having scored five and created five this season. The Englishman’s ability to play as either a fullback or right midfielder will also win him some brownie points. Dujon Sterling has been in fine form of late and at times has even found himself ahead of Tavernier in the selection pecking order, however his injury record would be a worry going forward.
Before returning to Tannadice in the summer, Stephenson signed a long-term contract at Anfield, indicating that the club are either wanting to keep him or cash in. Arne Slot is likely to make a decision on Stephenson in the summer when he reintegrates with the first team. The Reds have lacked depth at right back themselves throughout the season given the long term injury Conor Bradley.
Tavernier future remains uncertain
The club captain is currently in the hunt for what would be his second Premiership title in a Rangers jersey and is fully committed to the cause at this point in time. After Rangers’ recent Scottish Cup defeat at home to Celtic, Tavernier was asked a question regarding his view on potentially signing a new deal but responded with his goals for the end of this season.
He answered: “I obviously want to play, but the manager holds the cards to all of it and what team he selects, and you’ve just got to be fully behind the team of whatever team he selects. You’ve just got to keep working hard. I just want to give it my all, like I’ve always done, and that’s the best I possibly can do for myself. The team are working continuously hard, and we would obviously like to see silverware at the end of the season.”
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