There have been few events in the history of football that had such a big effect on the game than when Jean-Marc Bosman went to court.
His success changed everything and allowed players to move freely between clubs once their contracts ended – a ruling that Rangers have taken full advantage of over the years.
With contracts ending up and down the UK, the Premier League’s released list features a few well-known names who have been linked with Rangers in the past – could any of them end up at Ibrox this summer?
Brentford
Nathan Young-Coombes was a B team legend in his time at Rangers, scoring at Hampden in the Glasgow Cup final against Celtic.
The versatile forward always seemed to score on the big occasions including numerous Old Firm and UEFA Youth League goals.
The Covid-19 pandemic saw him become homesick though and a move to Brentford saw him become prolific in a central role.
His B team performances were so impressive that he earned an appearance in the Premier League.
Unfortunately, he’s never hit the same heights again either on loan or for Brentford and he is looking for a new club.
Brighton
Rangers were linked with Steven Alzate in January and it would be a surprise if Philippe Clement doesn’t make a move for the deep lying playmaker that he will know from his time in Belgium.
With John Lundstram and Ryan Jack released, the 25-year old could be the perfect replacement.
Towards the end of Steven Gerrard’s reign as manager, Adam Lallana was out in the cold at Liverpool and a reunion was mentioned.
How far the interest went on the England international is unknown though.
Everton
As when Rangers signed Jermain Defoe, when Deli Alli’s name was mentioned as a possible option for Rangers it seemed ridiculously far-fetched.
The 28-year old still has a lot to offer after a difficult few years with mental health and injury issues.
If anyone deserves a bit of good luck it’s Alli.
Manchester United
Jonny Evans is a lifelong Rangers fan and he has been linked with a move to Rangers for years.
With Leon Balogun signed up though, the veteran centre-half role is already taken.
Newcastle United
Rangers were consistently linked with replacements for Allan McGregor as the time on his playing days ticked away.
Loris Karius’ name was dropped when he was out of contract at Liverpool but nothing concrete ever emerged.
Nottingham Forest
Already covered by Rangers News, Philippe Clement needs to fix the shortage of home-grown players in his squad.
Scott McKenna would be a controversial option given his allegiances; however, he is an established international who has proven that he can cope at an elite level.
Sheffield United
Has there been a transfer window when Oli McBurnie wasn’t linked?
Had his opportunity in 2018 but turned up for an interview with Steven Gerrard hungover and that probably put an end to his hopes of playing for his boyhood club.
Wes Foderingham left Rangers having served the club well, even if he was never going to reach the pantheon of greats who wore the number one jersey.
Has been linked with a move to West Ham United where he would be number two.
As Scott Carson has shown, it’s not a bad way to earn a living.
After impressing on loan at Aberdeen, Max Lowe returned to Derby County and was linked with a move to Rangers.
On a free transfer, he wouldn’t be a bad shout this summer if Ridvan Yilmaz is sold.
It’s not exactly a stellar list of super stars, but there is a bargain or two to be had.
Do you think Nils Koppen will look across the border for a cheap and easy deal?
