The transfer window is officially open and now Rangers can officially begin moulding in Michael Beale's image.
Already their have been subtle tactical tweaks in four straight Premiership wins for the new manager and former assistant since taking over from Giovanni van Bronckhorst. But he'll only be able to make so many changes without transfer windows, and January provides him a first chance to try and spark life into the club's title charge with new faces.
A major test against Celtic on Monday is their primary focus at the moment but sporting director Ross Wilson and co will be working hard on deals. Linked names had been thin on the ground leading into January but now the rumour mill is beginning to spin, with prices named and some players told they're going to be staying put. Record Sport takes a look at the latest rumours and comments on transfer business surrounding Rangers.
Dion Sanderson
Linked on New Year's Day with the Light Blues, Sanderson is a well-thought of English defender, currently on loan at Birmingham City from Premier League outfit Wolves.
It's claimed by Football Scotland that the Molineux club will demand a fee of around £3 million for the centre-back, who can also play at full-back. Birmingham City also 'do not have to let the player leave in January as there is no contract clause in their initial deal with his parent club that would see him return to Molineux.'
Wilson has had Sanderson watched according to reports but Wolves are in a strong position. Their asset's contract doesn't expire until 2025 so they are in no need to sell quickly.
James Trafford
Goalkeeper was one area Beale said wouldn't be getting strengthened but that hasn't stopped rumours emerging. Asmir Begovic has been linked with a move, as has James Trafford, on loan at Bolton from Manchester City.
He's impressed away from the Etihad but Wanderers manager Ian Evatt is adamant he will stay until the end of the season. Rangers have monitored Bolton games of late with an eye perhaps on the future after 40-year-old number one Allan McGregor.
But speaking to Bolton News, Evatt confirmed after their 1-1 draw with Lincoln City his temporary stopper was staying put. He said: "There is no recall option, so James will be here for the rest of the season."
Ross Stewart
Perhaps a player with a longer-term links to Rangers. The striker has been a hit for Sunderland since joining from Rangers and the Scotland international's form has the Light Blues interested, but that depends on what happens with Alfredo Morelos, Sky reported this week.
Stewart has hit eight goals in 10 games this season and has failed to agree a new contract. Sunderland’s £10,000 a week offer is three times his current wages but less than a Premier League deal. But The Sun claim Brentford are watching him as they await scan results on star man Ivan Toney. He suffered a worrying knee injury against West Ham this week and the Bees have made Stewart check.
