A DONE DEAL
Ejaria signs as Rangers agree £3m Goldson fee
RANGERS last night secured the fourth addition of Steven Gerrard’s tenure by completing a loan deal for Liverpool youngster Ovie Ejaria.
The Ibrox club are now aiming to follow up with the signing of centre-back Connor Goldson by early next week after agreeing a £3million fee with Brighton.
Ejaria, who had a spell on loan with Sunderland last season, has been targeted by Gerrard to provide an additional attack-minded midfield option.
The final details had caused a delay, but Sportsmail understands an agreement is in place for the 20-year-old to spend next season at Ibrox. He is expected to be joined by Goldson, one of Gerrard’s key defensive targets. Rangers previously had two bids rejected for the 25-yearold, but yesterday struck a price with Brighton. Further issues — including talks over personal
terms and a medical — have yet to be completed. While Rangers are confident of getting the transfer over the line, confirmation may not arrive until after the weekend. Goldson underwent surgery to correct a heart problem in 2017 but subsequently returned to full fitness. He made ten appearances for Brighton last term and was unable to claim a regular place in the backline. A boyhood Liverpool fan, he is understood to be keen to link up with Gerrard and play an important role for Rangers. They have already signed Scott Arfield and Allan McGregor on free transfers, while Jamie Murphy’s loan move from Brighton has been converted into a threeyear contract. Last night Gerrard told Liverpool TV the time was right to manage Rangers after turning down job offers at Premier League level in England. ‘When Glasgow Rangers come knocking and you’re the youth team coach it’s a huge opportunity,’ said Gerrard. ‘I had the opportunity to lead in League Two, League One and the Championship and also to be the No2 at Premier League level. ‘I didn’t feel ready but I also didn’t get the right feeling in terms of what happens emotionally inside your body. ‘But when Rangers come, I’m 15 months further down the line in terms of the planning and preparation that comes with coaching. ‘Obviously with the size and magnitude of Rangers coming, the buzz and the juices got going.’ Meanwhile, Graeme Murty is to return to his role in charge of Rangers Under-20s just five weeks after he was sacked as the club’s interim manager. He was given the opportunity to resume his previous employment and has now decided to return after Gerrard gave his approval.