Sheffield United are currently awaiting the completion of their takeover before initiating discussions with Rangers regarding a transfer for Ben Davies, according to The Fourth Official. The outlet reported via its YouTube channel on Tuesday (2 July) that the Blades have previously expressed interest in the English defender, who is considered surplus to requirements under Philippe Clement at Ibrox this summer. While other Championship clubs are also interested in the 28-year-old, Chris Wilder’s United are expected to re-enter the race later in the summer transfer window to try to lure Davies away from Glasgow.
In a YouTube statement, The Fourth Official explained, “Sheffield United are currently undergoing talks with a brand new owner at this stage, which is part of the reason Scotland striker Oli McBurnie has yet to sign a new deal. But my understanding and what I am hearing from several parties is that once that deal for new ownership comes through for Sheffield United, they will be back in touch with Rangers regarding trying to seal a deal for Ben Davies.”
Davies already has connections with Bramall Lane, having spent a loan spell with the Blades after his move from Liverpool to Preston, making this a potentially appealing deal for the centre-back this summer. However, Rangers are likely eager to remove the 28-year-old from their wage bill as soon as possible and may not want to wait for United to resolve their ownership issues before parting ways with the defender. If other Championship clubs are as keen on Davies as suggested, they might have the opportunity to outbid Wilder’s side while the takeover is still in progress.
For Rangers, the priority is finding an exit route for the Englishman this summer, as he barely featured under Clement last season and with additional signings expected, his playing time will be further reduced. The hope is that a suitable bid matching the Light Blues’ valuation will be made swiftly so that the transfer can be completed before pre-season preparations intensify.
In other Rangers news, an update has emerged concerning Hamza Igamane’s contract at Ibrox as his transfer nears completion.