Ibrox Sources: Rangers accelerate plan to sign Liverpool player
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Football Insider or go back to LFC Live.
(Credit: Imago) Sun 29 March 2026 14:49, UK Luca Stephenson is set to return to Liverpool at the end of his loan spell and hopes to impress Arne Slot despite interest from Rangers, sources have told Football Insider.Rangers have been impressed by the 22-year-old’s performances for Dundee United, but he is currently eyeing a return to Anfield ahead of pre-season.The right-back has spent two seasons at Tannadice Park developing his game, and could be tempted to remain in Scotland, but plans to try his luck as part of the Liverpool squad.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Stephenson is highly regarded at Liverpool and they are keen to test him out.While it remains a possibility that he could leave Anfield permanently this summer, Rangers may have to look elsewhere in their pursuit of a new right-back. 🔄 Rangers Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Ibrox boardroom. VISIT THE RANGERS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Ranger set sights on Luca Stephenson signingFootball Insider revealed on 27 March that Rangers and Celtic are racing to sign Stephenson and are keeping tabs on his situation ahead of the summer.Both Old Firm clubs have been impressed by his performances for Dundee United and are keen to see him make the step up in the Scottish Premiership.Luca Stephenson2025-26 StatsAppearances32Starts31Minutes Played2723Goals5Assists4Luca Stephenson’s 2025-26 stats with Dundee United.
(via Transfermarkt)However, Liverpool have also been impressed by his performances on loan and could hand him the chance to impress Slot when he returns for pre-season.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Rangers have been linked with Stephenson, who’s had a very good season on loan at Dundee United from Liverpool.“He is quite highly regarded at Liverpool so it will be interesting to see what their plans are for Stephenson. “If they were willing to sell him in this upcoming summer transfer window I would imagine they would demand a decent fee for him because of how well he’s done up at Tannadice.“So that makes it a more complicated deal to do for Rangers.“I don’t think Liverpool will be rushing in to make any decision on Stephenson, he’ll probably return to the club in pre-season and look to impress.“I’m sure the player himself will be hoping that he might have done enough up at Dundee United to get a chance to maybe stake a claim for a first-team place at Anfield.“But if he doesn’t and the club are willing to let him go, I’d imagine they’ll be looking at decent fee for him as well.”James Tavernier contract update emerges at IbroxRangers’ pursuit of a new right-back comes amid growing speculation that James Tavernier could be set to leave Ibrox upon the expiry of his contract this summer.Football Insider revealed last month that Tavernier’s future at Rangers is still uncertain, with contract talks delayed amid doubts over his age.Credit: ImagoBoth parties are prepared for him to potentially move on, while remaining open to all options as he could yet extend his stay beyond the June expiry date.The 34-year-old remains a key player under Danny Rohl, and his leadership both on and off the pitch is seen as a valuable asset to Rangers’ progress.The club are believed to be leaning towards offering Tavernier a new deal despite no talks having taken place, and doubts about the length of a potential extension.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Rangers Insider Access Get the full story from Ibrox and Auchenhowie with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.