An MLS and USMNT insider has now lifted the lid on a clause in the contract of James Sands that he claims Glasgow Rangers 'will trigger' to keep him at Ibrox.

The Lowdown: 18-month loan

Giovanni van Bronckhorst's team signed Sands on an initial 18-month loan from New York City FC back in the January transfer window.

They hold an exclusive option to buy the central defender, but the price was not disclosed by the Gers upon their announcement of his arrival.

The Latest: Clause revealed

Taking to Twitter, USA national team insider Tom Bogert has now revealed that the buy-out clause for Sands is set at $6m (£4.8m), which he claims that the Light Blues 'will trigger':

"Was told Rangers' purchase clause for on-loan NYCFC and USMNT defender James Sands is $6 million. Dunno if there was a loan fee too or not. I would assume Rangers will trigger that. Think he'll be really good this year."

The Verdict: Activate

Given that Sands is only 21 years of age, his market value is sure to go up, and so paying just £4.8m for him could well turn out to be a bargain in a few years' time.

The USA international played a total of 14 times for the Teddy Bears over all competitions last season, including in the UEFA Europa League final, and is clearly a squad player that van Bronckhorst values.

Nonetheless, there is a chance that Calvin Bassey could leave this summer, and so the Dutch manager will need enough centre-back options going into the new campaign.

In other news, find out who RFC have now been 'contacted' over signing here!