Bates’ German move could bring in cash

Raith Rovers will be due compensation if their former player David Bates’ move from Rangers to Hamburg goes ahead as planned.

The 21-year-old last week signed a pre-contract with the German outfit.

Bates, who made his Rovers debut in 2015, initially moved to Ibrox on a development loan a year later before Rangers snapped him up on a permanent basis in January 2017.

No fee was involved, with Rangers players Ryan Hardie, Jordan Thompson and Scott Roberts heading to Stark’s Park on loan at the same time.

However, if Bates’ move to Hamburg is confirmed, Raith will be entitled to a payment through Fifa’s training compensation scheme.

That is understood to be a six-figure sum – but only if Hamburg can avoid relegation from the Bundesliga.

They are eight points adrift at the bottom of the table with only four games remaining.

Raith chairman Alan Young said: “We do have an entitlement and there will be funds coming to Raith Rovers, but not until he signs a proper contract with Hamburg.

“Just because it’s a precontract doesn’t mean it’s definitely going to happen.

“Hamburg are in a fairly precarious position in the league and I’m told that for compensation purposes they are defined currently as a category four club.

“If they get relegated that would change to a category two club and that has an effect on the amount of compensation that gets paid.

“There are a lot of ifs around there. Let’s firstly root for Hamburg staying in the Bundesliga and let’s see what comes of it.”

Picture: SNS David Bates is set for Hamburg.