Rangers primed to pounce on Man United starlet James Overy as McInnes rebuild gathers pace

File this under one to watch: Rangers are weighing a swoop for Manchester United’s highly rated teenager James Overy as Derek McInnes looks to put proper steel and speed back into the right side of his defence. After the way last season fizzled out, the Ibrox hierarchy aren’t hanging about—this rebuild has a plan, and right-back is front and centre.

Why Rangers need a new right-back—now

Two big departures have left a hole you could drive the team bus through. Club icon James Tavernier has moved on at the end of his deal, and Max Aarons has headed back to Bournemouth after his loan. Ross McCrorie has arrived from Bristol City and offers versatility, while Ben Godfrey can do a job on the flank as he did at times for Everton. But make no mistake: McInnes wants a specialist who can fly forward, deliver and defend—someone to restore balance after a bruising 25/26 run-in that saw the title slip late on.

Who is James Overy?

Overy is an 18-year-old right-back who joined Manchester United from Perth Glory in 2024 as a 16-year-old. He’s athletic, tidy on the ball and happy to step into the final third—very modern full-back. Eligible for both Australia and Scotland, he signed his first professional contract last summer, a clear sign United rate him. He hasn’t made his senior debut yet, but he’s been involved with the first-team set-up in recent training blocks and the feedback from Carrington has been glowing.

How a deal might shape up

Given his status at Old Trafford, any move would almost certainly be a loan. United will want assurances about minutes and development; Rangers will want energy and end product right away. That’s the tug-of-war of elite loans—but if McInnes can offer a clear pathway, it’s the sort of arrangement that can work for everyone.

Transfer tip: If you’re tracking market moves and odds around this one, check our best betting sites guide for who’s pricing a deal and when momentum shifts.

Where he fits at Ibrox

Rangers don’t just need a body—they need thrust. Tavernier’s output won’t be replicated overnight, but Overy’s willingness to overlap, press high and punch passes into midfield would suit a front-foot approach. With McCrorie providing cover and Godfrey capable of tucking inside or holding width, Overy could be the attacking outlet that stretches games and gives Lawrence Shankland service from the right channel.

Pundit’s verdict

This is smart recruiting from Rangers: blend experience—see Ivor Pandur, McCrorie, Dan Neil, Shankland, Cammy Devlin and Godfrey already through the door—with a high-ceiling youngster who can grow into the shirt. There’s risk, of course; the Scottish game is a different tempo and the Ibrox demands are unforgiving. But if the loan lands, McInnes gets legs, ambition and a project player who could tilt tight matches. One to keep a close eye on as the window rumbles on.