Rangers would leave the Ibrox fanbase thrilled if they can beat their Glasgow arch-rivals to the signing of a mutual transfer target, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Wanted man

According to a report by All Nigeria Soccer, the top two Premiership clubs are eyeing a move for a 24-year-old striker this summer.

It is reported that Danish outfit Randers are demanding £3.5m for Nigeria international Stephen Odey, with the Light Blues credited with a stronger interest than Celtic as Ibrox sporting director Ross Wilson has already held preliminary talks over a deal for the attacker.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s claim

O’Rourke believes that Rangers would receive a major psychological boost ahead of next season if they beat their arch-rivals to Odey’s signature.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed: “It will always go down well with the fans, I think, if Rangers were able to beat Celtic to a potential transfer target.

“They’ve obviously done their homework on this player and it seems that both Rangers and Celtic are interested in him. I think if Rangers were to win the race, it would give them a lift ahead of the new season.”

The Verdict: Good prospective signing

Odey enjoyed a strong 2021/22 with Randers, having netted seven goals in 15 regular season Superligaen appearances. He also scored three times in the Danish club's Europa Conference League campaign.

With Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side seemingly looking to bring in an extra striker this summer, the arrival of the Nigeria international at Ibrox would provide the squad with crucial depth in the attacking third, especially given the ongoing uncertainty over Alfredo Morelos' future.

Additionally, if the Light Blues beat Celtic to the striker’s signature, it would indeed be quite a fillip for the Ibrox fan base, as O'Rourke has suggested.

Therefore, there would be plenty of positives to this transfer if Rangers can pull it off.