Well-known American investors are reportedly on the brink of a multi-million pound takeover of Rangers in a significant move for Scottish football.
Paraag Marathe, a prominent figure associated with the San Francisco 49ers and Leeds United FC, is spearheading a potential bid to gain control of the Ibrox club.
This takeover has been in the works for several months, with ongoing discussions between the 49ers and key Rangers shareholders indicating a serious commitment to the investment.
The potential investors find Rangers to be a compelling opportunity because of the club's regular involvement in UEFA tournaments, emphasised by the Light Blues progressing to the last-16 of this season's Europa League.
In addition to the financial advantages, the consortium intends to utilise the 49ers' sophisticated, data-oriented technology for scouting players and to pursue profitable sponsorship deals.
Sportsology Group, who are currently conducting an internal review at Rangers, are already one of the 49ers key clients.
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The hurdles US investors must clear to seal Rangers takeover
Former Ibrox captain Barry Ferguson believes that Rangers need to invest more effectively to challenge Celtic's recent domestic dominance. So, he was particularly interested in the news of a potential NFL partnership, which broke while he was live on air.
"It will be interesting to see if anything comes from it," he told the Go Radio Football Show.
"That is one thing about the new chairman and chief executive. They have to bring external investment into the club. It has been clear that has been needed. Over the coming months hopefully that is the case."
Ferguson then expanded on his thoughts when asked if the existing shareholders would be inclined to sell.
"Well you want what is best for the club," he explained. "And if somebody is coming in and willing to pay what the shares are valued at or what they are worth then I would imagine the shareholders would do a deal. It is not just a case of coming in and buying the shares.
"These new shareholders, if that is going to be what is happening, are going to invest more money into the club. That is certainly what is needed. Look, I wouldn't get too excited about it just now but it is good to see that things are happening in the background.
"It is clear as day that there has to be fresh investment coming in. I think that is one of the biggest jobs of the new chairman and chief executive. To make sure that is the case going forward."
