Glasgow Rangers are once again dipping into a familiar recruitment strategy—one that previously delivered tremendous success at Ibrox. With ambitions of reclaiming the Scottish Premiership title, the club is reportedly accelerating efforts to sign Liverpool youngster Luca Stephenson, a move that echoes the arrival of former fan favourite Ryan Kent.
Under the guidance of head coach Danny Rohl, Rangers are firmly in the title race, sitting just three points behind leaders Hearts with seven games remaining. The stakes are high, as the Light Blues aim to secure their first league title since the historic unbeaten 2020/21 campaign led by Steven Gerrard. That squad was packed with quality, but Kent stood out as one of the most influential figures, contributing ten goals and nine assists in the league.
Kent’s journey to stardom at Ibrox is particularly relevant to Rangers’ current transfer thinking. After failing to break into the first team at Liverpool, he joined Rangers initially on loan before making the move permanent in 2019. Over time, he evolved into a key attacking force, finishing his Rangers career with 38 goals and 56 assists in 218 appearances. His success demonstrated the value of identifying young talent unable to secure opportunities at elite Premier League clubs.
Now, Rangers appear ready to replicate that formula with Stephenson. The 22-year-old has impressed during his loan spell at Dundee United, showcasing both attacking quality and defensive reliability. Operating primarily as a wing-back, he has registered five goals and four assists in 28 league appearances—numbers that underline his offensive impact from a deeper position.
What makes Stephenson particularly appealing is his proven ability within the Scottish Premiership. Unlike many young imports, he has already adapted to the league’s physicality and tempo. This reduces the risk typically associated with developing players and increases the likelihood of immediate contribution.
His attacking output is especially noteworthy. Stephenson’s five league goals have come from an expected goals (xG) tally of just 2.25, and notably, none were penalties. In contrast, current Rangers captain James Tavernier—long regarded as one of the league’s most prolific attacking full-backs—has seen half of his goals come from the penalty spot this season. Stephenson’s ability to generate and convert chances from open play suggests he could bring a new dynamic to Rangers’ right flank.
With Tavernier’s contract nearing its expiration, Rangers are clearly planning for the future. Stephenson represents a natural successor—young, dynamic, and already productive in the same league. His arrival could ensure continuity while also injecting fresh energy into the squad.
However, the situation is not without complications. Stephenson is reportedly keen to impress new Liverpool manager Arne Slot during pre-season, meaning Rangers may need to be patient or persuasive to secure a deal. Liverpool, too, could view him as a potential squad option, depending on his development trajectory.
Still, Rangers’ interest signals clear intent. The club is not just looking for short-term fixes but aiming to build a squad capable of sustained success. Signing Stephenson would align perfectly with that vision—mirroring the Kent model of acquiring undervalued talent and transforming it into a cornerstone of the team.
At 22, Stephenson is at an ideal stage in his career to grow, develop, and potentially increase his market value significantly. If Rangers can finalize the deal, they may once again have unearthed a gem—one capable of playing a pivotal role in their pursuit of domestic dominance.
In many ways, this potential transfer feels like history repeating itself. And if it yields even half the success of the Kent signing, Rangers fans will have every reason to be excited.
