Rangers are struggling to attract parties willing to fund a full takeover at Ibrox, according to journalist Stephen McGowan.
Writing in the Scottish Daily Mail (14 January, pg. 74), McGowan highlighted the challenges any potential new owners would face, including growing Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions.
Supporters have intensified their campaigns against the current board, but the club’s £22m in outstanding loans poses a significant obstacle to a takeover. McGowan noted, “The directors’ personal financial commitment, currently at £22million in loans, is undeniable. However, this sum represents a major barrier to the kind of regime change many fans are calling for. Additionally, there is a lack of interested parties willing to purchase the board’s stake and operate under tightening FFP regulations.”
Rangers Takeover Challenges
For concerned fans, the outlook remains uncertain. Although chairman John Bennett has shown support for manager Philippe Clement amid poor results, there appears to be no imminent change in leadership.
The substantial loans tied to the club are likely deterring potential investors, acting as a safeguard for the current board. While Patrick Stewart and Fraser Thornton recently joined the leadership team, they now face significant pressure as Rangers trail far behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership title race, with the season only just entering 2025.
Hopes of attracting external investment, deemed more realistic than a full takeover last October, have also stalled. As journalist Chris Jack previously suggested, there’s been no progress in recent months, leaving fans frustrated with no immediate solutions in sight for the Govan-based club.
