Rangers Want To Sign This 22-Year-Old Liverpool Player: Will It Actually Solve Their Defensive Problem? | OneFootball

Rangers have emerged as genuine contenders to sign Luca Stephenson this summer, with the Liverpool midfielder set to look for a permanent move away from Anfield, according to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder wants consistent starting opportunities, which remain unlikely at Liverpool under Arne Slot’s current setup.

Rangers eye Luca Stephenson as Liverpool midfielder gets ready for Anfield exit

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, O’Rourke confirmed that Rangers tracked Stephenson closely throughout this season, impressed by his output at Tannadice Park before injury struck. Stephenson made 33 appearances for Dundee United, scoring five goals and contributing five assists, even captaining the side against Motherwell in February before his hamstring injury cut his campaign short.

Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin expects Stephenson to seek a permanent home rather than return for another loan spell, given he has now spent successive seasons away from Anfield. Liverpool, however, hold strong control after agreeing a new contract with Stephenson before his second loan move, placing them in a position to demand a considerable transfer fee.

Rangers see him as a long-term candidate to fill the right-back position, with James Tavernier leaving the club, and the area identified as a priority target heading into the summer window.

“He’s somebody that Rangers did look at and were keeping tabs on, Luca Stephenson, due to his form on loan at Dundee United.

“He’s had his season ended by a new injury at Dundee United, but up until then he was having a fine season for the Tannadice club.

“Long-term, Stephenson is ready to leave Liverpool on a permanent basis.

“He wants to find a permanent home and nail down a place in the starting XI on a regular basis as well, and he doesn’t think he will get that at Liverpool.

“So there are a number of clubs on alert and ready to offer him a move away from Anfield.”

Does signing Stephenson actually solve Rangers’ right-back problem, or does it create a new one?

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – APRIL 04: Luca Stephenson of Dundee United is challenged by Jayden Meghoma of Rangers during the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Dundee United at Ibrox Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Rangers need to think carefully rather than make a quick decision. Stephenson is an exciting prospect, as he covers ground, reads the game well, and puts up solid numbers, as evidenced by his five goals and five assists. His captaincy stint at Dundee United also demonstrates his leadership skills. Those strengths make Stephenson an attractive option at Ibrox with Tavernier moving on.

But there are risks. Rangers would be signing a player coming off a hamstring injury with no guarantee he will be 100% for pre-season. He hasn’t yet felt the pressure of playing at Ibrox every single week.

His discipline is another factor; seven yellow cards this season suggest he can be a bit rash when pressing. On top of that, both Rangers and Celtic seem to have stepped back lately, which usually means Liverpool’s asking price is making them think twice.

Rangers should keep tabs on him but stay cautious. Stephenson has the traits to become a reliable starter, but he hasn’t yet been tested under this level of scrutiny. If the price is right and his medical goes well, Rangers should pull the trigger and bring him in this summer.