Celtic And Rangers Fight For 22-Year-Old Dundee United Player: Should O’Neill Prioritise A Move For Summer? | OneFootball

Rangers and Celtic have both entered the race to sign Liverpool’s Luca Stephenson permanently this summer. Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke reports that the Old Firm rivals actively track the 22-year-old’s performances at Dundee United. Stephenson was born in Sunderland and played for England as a youth international. He has spent two straight seasons on loan at Tannadice Park.

He is now one of the Scottish Premiership’s most interesting young players. Liverpool signed Stephenson to a long-term contract in August 2025. However, the club might allow him to leave for the right price because they already have a very deep squad. Rangers see him as a long-term replacement for their captain. They have joined Celtic in preparing a formal summer bid, and it sets up a real Old Firm battle for his signature.

Consistent numbers and growing leadership

During the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season, Stephenson scored four goals and provided three assists. He played 2,209 minutes across 25 games and earned a 6.98 FotMob rating. He also picked up six yellow cards. Across his two seasons at Dundee United, he has made 66 appearances. Stephenson already beat last season’s five-goal involvements by hitting nine this term. His progress shows he is getting better and is not just a one-season wonder. He recently captained the side against Motherwell. Stephenson’s ability to play in defensive midfield or at right-back gives managers great tactical options.

Should Celtic actually prioritise this move this summer?

DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – MARCH 22: Kieran Tierney of Celtic is challenged by Luca Stephenson of Dundee United during the William Hill Premiership match between Dundee United and Celtic at Tannadice Park on March 22, 2026 in Dundee, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

The situation is interesting but overlooked. Celtic already have plenty of players in wide areas and midfield. Adding Stephenson only makes sense if Martin O’Neil or his replacement uses his defensive skills in a specific role. The manager cannot simply expect him to match his current attacking stats at a higher intensity every week.

Stephenson’s Transfermarkt value is only €900,000. This looks like a great deal, but buying talent without a clear plan leads to wasteful recruitment. Stephenson’s six yellow cards show an aggression that suits Scottish football, but he might face more trouble under Champions League referees. Celtic need players, but Rangers likely offer him a clearer role and a faster path to becoming a vital part of the team.