Barry Ferguson has insisted Rangers need to have a near perfect summer transfer window if they are to challenge Celtic "big time" next season.
The former Gers midfielder says Michael Beale needs to get new players in early so they are ready to train on the first day of pre-season. Ferguson also believes that Colombian striker Alfredo Morelos will leave Ibrox in the summer when his contract is up, while he would be delighted if Ryan Kent signed a new deal in Govan. Kent's contract is also up at the end of the season and Beale revealed last week he was due to sit down with the Englishman to thrash out a new deal.
New recruits Nicolas Raskin and Todd Cantwell were praised by Ferguson after they appeared in the last three games against Kilmarnock, Hibernian and Raith Rovers over the last week. Celtic are currently nine points clear at the top of the Premiership and are on course to win the treble this season after defeating the Light Blues in the Viaplay Cup final last month.
Ferguson told Go Radio that if his former side are to get anywhere near Ange Postecoglou's side next season then they will have to get business done early. He said: "Recruitment has got to be virtually spot on this summer.
"I think the two that he brought in January have definitely strengthened the Rangers squad, Raskin and Cantwell. I have been impressed with them over the last couple of weeks, that's three games they have played in the space of a week so their fitness levels will be climbing because they hadn't played a lot of football.
"I would be shocked if they are not in conversation with a number of players down south or abroad wherever it may be. They know how important it is to make sure a strong team to make sure they challenge Celtic big time next season. I would like to hope that Rangers' recruitment they are in early doors, in the first day of pre-season.
On Morelos, Ferguson said: "I think Morelos 100%, I watched Michael Beale's interview after the game, it looks as if it is curtains. Ryan Kent, I'm still unsure. I'm swaying towards he will leave but if they agree a new contract with Ryan Kent I will be more than happy."
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