Rangers to accelerate Luca Stephenson pursuit after confirmed exit news

Rangers should look to speed up their pursuit of Liverpool starlet Luca Stephenson after James Tavernier confirmed his departure from the club.

Stephenson has impressed across the last two campaigns at Dundee United, and has shown his versatility to play at right-back or in midfield.

The 22-year-old could be a long-term successor to Tavernier at Rangers, after the club captain announced he will leave Glasgow at the end of the season.

Tavernier has spent 11 years at Ibrox, but the 34-year-old has found playing time harder to guarantee under Danny Rohl.

With Max Aarons also set to leave Rangers when his loan spell expires at the end of the season, Rohl needs to acquire a new right-back in the market this summer.

Luca Stephenson has impressed Rangers chiefs

As revealed by Football Insider in March, Rangers are facing competition from Celtic to sign Stephenson this summer.

Stephenson has been a constant starter at Dundee United this season, and has come up against Rangers three times this campaign, including their latest encounter at Ibrox.

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Stephenson impressed against Rangers in that match.

Stephenson is also strong going forward, having registered five goals and five assists in the league this season, a trait which Tavernier was known for at Rangers.

Alongside strong defensive qualities, Rohl will need to replace the goal contributions which Tavernier brought to the side, which Stephenson looks like he would be able to do.

Rangers could move ahead of rivals in Stephenson transfer race

The prospect of Champions League football returning to Ibrox next season could impact Stephenson’s decision to join the club.

Champions League qualification could also play a part in Rohl keeping his best players at the club, including defender Emmanuel Fernandez and midfielder Nico Raskin.

Fernandez has shone during his first season at the Gers, which has prompted interest from Premier League sides.

Rangers have no desire to sell Fernandez, and the club will set a high price tag on the 24-year-old, whilst they are braced for offers on Raskin.

Rohl still has a Scottish Premiership title race to win first before he can fully put his plans in place for the summer transfer window, with Hearts currently ahead of Rangers by one point.

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