Rangers could make Malik Tillman's loan move permanent if they reach the Champions League group stage, according to former goalkeeper Paddy Kenny.

The Lowdown: Tillman joins on loan

The 20-year-old joined the Gers on loan earlier in the summer transfer window, with Giovanni van Bronckhorst identifying him as a strong option.

Tillman arrived at Ibrox from Bayern Munich and he has already scored once in his first three Scottish Premiership appearances this season, with former Gers goalkeeper Craig Moore describing him as 'very dangerous'.

While the American's current move is only a temporary one, it could be that Rangers look to acquire his services over a more sustained period eventually.

The Latest: Permanent move mooted

Speaking to Football Insider, former Premier League 'keeper Kenny claimed that qualification for the next stage of the Champions League could prove pivotal regarding Malik's future:

"It’s exactly that. That is the difference with qualifying for the Champions League. It’s £40million. That is how important it is and how important these two games are against PSV. it is great for the club if they get to the group stage, whatever happens.

"But the financial side of that is very important for Rangers, for all clubs. It makes signings like that possible.

"It keeps them within touch distance of Celtic who, of course, already have that money in the bank."

The Verdict: Vital few games

The two upcoming matches against PSV Eindhoven could potentially prove to be season-defining for Rangers, given the magnitude of the Champions League.

In truth, Van Bronckhorst's men are arguably the underdogs to progress to the group stage, but if they get the better of the Dutch giants it can only be a positive, in terms of Malik's situation.

The youngster is clearly going to find it hard to become a regular for Bayern, and if he sees Rangers as a genuine Champions League club, he could see his long-term future belonging there.