Report – Rangers wrap up deal for teenage striker James Graham
Rangers have completed a deal for Ross County starlet James Graham, according to the Daily Record.
The national outlet suggests that the Gers have wrapped up a deal worth around £45,000 for the youngster.
The 16-year-old striker had trials with both Liverpool and Manchester United, but is understood to have opted for a move to Ibrox.
Speculation surrounding the youngster was widespread, with both Celtic and Wolves also credited with an interest, as per The Scottish Sun.
But it’s the Gers who have won out, with Graham putting pen to paper on a three-year deal in Glasgow.
The Gers announced on Wednesday evening that promising midfielder Stephen Kelly would be making the move in the opposite from Ibrox to Ross County on loan for the 2020/21 campaign.
Is this a good deal for Rangers?
It’s hard to pass too much judgment on a 16-year-old striker, but the fact that the Gers have reportedly got this one over the line feels like a really promising sign.
To fend off interest from the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, and even Celtic is a real statement of intent, and would seemingly suggest that the Gers have major sticking power when it comes to their recruitment.
£45,000 is peanuts in today’s market, and in years to come, that could look like a stunningly good investment.
Speaking about the player in October of last year, shortly after his trail with Liverpool, Ross County academy boss Jim Kelly said: “James has consistently shown his qualities, which has been recognised by Liverpool.
“It is a real compliment to the work being done in our academy that James has been given this chance.”
Perhaps most pleasing, however, is the fact that this deal proves Steven Gerrard is intent on building for the long-term future too.
We saw it with the signing of Charlie Lindsay at the beginning of June, and Graham could represent an equally impressive bit of business.
In other Rangers news, ‘Happy days’ – Many Gers fans delighted by announcement on new deal for Stephen Kelly.