Luca Rankin contract: All Rangers fans need to know as Ibrox deal confirmed

Luca Rankin has committed his future to Rangers.

The 16-year-old has signed his first professional contract with the Ibrox side.

The Gers confirmed the new deal on Monday, for the defender who has made his way through the youth ranks.

Rankin was attracting interest from England, but Derek McInnes' side have convinced him that his future is best served by sticking in Glasgow.

He is a very highly-rated talent and has already been involved with first-team training under Danny Rohl.

Ibrox News rounds up all supporters need to know about the young defender and his new terms.

How long has Luca Rankin signed on at Rangers?

Auchenhowie prodigy Rankin has agreed to remain with the Gers for another three years.

He is set to be with the G51 outfit until 2029 at the very earliest unless circumstances change.

The Bears have acted fast to secure another one of their best young talents and will hopefully see the results in the near future.

What has been said about Rankin's extension?

Interim Head of Academy, David McCallum, has already commented on the extension for Rankin.

Speaking to the Gers' official website, he said: “We are thrilled that Luca has signed his first professional contract at the club.

“The interest in Luca from elsewhere has been well-documented, as has been the case for several of our 2010-born age group this year, but he believes in the opportunities that exist here, and his decision reflects the clear pathway we provide for young players.

“Luca has taken every challenge in his stride throughout his time in the academy, and he will be supported and challenged every step of the way by the fantastic staff we have here at the club.”

That is a glowing review of the youngster and will only increase excitement about his future.

What experience does Rankin have so far?

Rankin is primarily a defender, although he has also shown that he can play in midfield.

He has featured for the Bears in the Under-17s, Under-19s, and the B team, but not yet made his senior debut.

He has been capped by Scotland at Under-15 and Under-16 level, showing that he is rated by his country, too.

Rankin is understood to be comfortable with the ball and willing to learn, which could make him a dream for McInnes.

What are the next steps for Rankin?

The next steps for Rankin are to keep impressing at his current level and continue to make his way through the youth ranks.

Then when he trains with the first-team again, he needs to make the right impression on the new manager, and show why he can be an asset in the Scottish Premiership.

If he can do that, he may end up making his debut for the Light Blues, sooner rather than later.

Only time will tell whether he can achieve that.