Ben Davies’ failed transfer move gives proof scouting overhaul was needed at Rangers
Ben Davies’ failed move to Stoke City is evidence that change is necessary at Rangers as the club prepare to overhaul their scouting department, as reported by the Daily Record (9 September).
The newspaper said that Rangers are changing the way they scout players, with the process now moving towards a video and data-focused operation, which should see the club benefit in the long term.
Davies’ move to Stoke fell through as the clubs couldn’t agree on the correct financial package [Chris Jack, 8 September], in further evidence that signings like that do not represent a long-term view for the club.
Football transfers currently, especially for clubs who aren’t mega-rich like certain Premier League outfits, are largely focused around a buy low, sell high philosophy, often referred to as Moneyball-style deals (after the Brad Pitt film) due to the focus on data rather than opinions.
For Rangers, that would have prevented the club from spending £4million [Sky Sports] on a player who hasn’t improved their side and is now proving difficult to shift from the wage books.
The complications surrounding Davies’ transfer fee to depart the club – even with a loan deal suggested – hints that either he is on a wage at Rangers that Stoke couldn’t afford, or the club are looking to recoup some of the high fee they spent just a year ago. Either way, it’s not a sustainable model.
Michael Beale’s approach to transfers at Ibrox has all been based on players he has watched live, with his view of the player as the ultimate decision-maker. The change of style towards data and video should see Rangers find some bargains that they can then sell for profit in the future.
This would allow them to better their financial position, something the club are understandably keen on securing for their long-term future after issues that have plagued them in the past.
In other Rangers news, one former player has said Michael Beale changed his life.