NafisaDeveloping young talent has remained one of the key pillars for Rangers as the club continues to strengthen its long-term vision. While first-team additions often dominate the headlines during the transfer window, securing the future of highly-rated academy prospects is equally important behind the scenes.
Over recent years, the Ibrox outfit have placed significant emphasis on creating a clear pathway from the academy to senior football, rewarding the club’s brightest youngsters with professional contracts as they continue their development. It is an approach Rangers hope will provide the foundations for future first-team success.
With competition for promising teenage talents becoming increasingly fierce across Britain, tying down emerging prospects before rival clubs make their move has become a priority. Rangers have now taken another significant step in that direction.
Rangers have officially confirmed the signing of highly-rated young midfielder Luca Rankin for the club’s academy setup.
The 16-year-old is the son of current Airdrieonians manager John Rankin, the former Dundee United, Hibernian and Clyde midfielder.
Luca has signed his first professional contract with the Light Blues just a few days after celebrating his 16th birthday. The promising youngster has committed his future to the club until the summer of 2029.
After playing an important role in helping Rangers’ Under-19 and Under-17 sides lift their respective league titles last season, the club has now rewarded his impressive progress with professional terms.
Interim Head of Academy David McCallum shared his delight after the announcement, telling the club website: “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.”
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