Rangers Deal: £45m price tag on 28-year-old midfielder.

The transfer window hasn’t officially opened yet, but Rangers have already been linked with several intriguing deals, notably targeting Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.

Despite Phillips’ impressive profile as a 31-cap England international still active in the Premier League at 28 years old, the financial aspects of such a deal pose significant challenges for Rangers.

     Kalvin Phillips: A Lofty Target for Rangers

Phillips is reportedly a target for Rangers under the guidance of Nils Koppen and Philippe Clement. His attributes align well with what Rangers are seeking, particularly in light of the potential departures of John Lundstram and Ryan Jack. Phillips could provide the defensive solidity and attacking build-up play that Clement desires as he looks to revamp his squad.

However, several obstacles make this deal appear unlikely:

1. High Price Tag: Manchester City has set Phillips’ asking price at £25 million, which is far beyond Rangers’ typical spending capacity. This figure is more than double what Rangers paid for Tore Andre Flo, marking it as an exceptionally high investment for the club.

2. Salary Constraints: Phillips currently earns £150,000 a week, a figure that would be challenging for Rangers to accommodate within their budget. Even if a loan deal were considered, the associated costs would still be significant.

      Financial Realities and Transfer Strategy

Rangers have historically been creative with their signings, as evidenced by deals for Jermain Defoe and Aaron Ramsey. However, the current financial landscape of football, especially in the English leagues, makes such high-profile signings increasingly difficult for clubs operating on a tighter budget like Rangers.

Koppen and Clement’s transfer strategy appears to focus on young, energetic, and athletic players from leagues where transfer fees and salaries are more manageable. This strategic approach aligns better with Rangers’ financial capabilities and long-term planning.

     Competing Offers and Player Preferences

Given the interest Phillips is likely to attract from various clubs, especially those in the Premier League and other top European leagues, playing in the Scottish Premiership (SPFL) might not be at the top of his list. The competition from clubs willing to meet Manchester City’s valuation and Phillips’ wage demands further diminishes Rangers’ chances of securing his services.

     Conclusion

While Kalvin Phillips would be an ideal addition to Rangers from a footballing perspective, the financial demands and the competitive transfer market make this deal highly improbable. Rangers will likely continue to pursue targets that fit within their financial framework and strategic vision, focusing on younger talents with the potential to develop and contribute significantly to the team’s success.