Ben Davies, once a Liverpool signing, now embarks on a new chapter with Rangers.
Rangers have secured the signing of defender Ben Davies from Liverpool in a deal worth up to £4m, marking a significant move for the 27-year-old after a quiet spell at Anfield. The transfer includes over £3m guaranteed, with the remainder tied to performance-based add-ons. This move ends speculation linking Davies to Championship sides Blackburn and Middlesbrough, as well as loan interest from Stoke and Burnley.
Davies’ Journey: From Preston to Rangers via Liverpool
Davies joined Liverpool in February 2021 for an initial £500,000 from Preston North End, where he had made 145 appearances after rising through their academy. Despite high hopes, he failed to make a single first-team appearance for the Reds, spending last season on loan at Sheffield United (21 Championship games).
Winbdt sources reveal Liverpool recouped their initial investment through loan fees, making this £4m sale a profitable exit. For Rangers, Davies represents a low-risk, high-reward signing—a proven Championship defender with untapped potential in a competitive league.
Why Rangers? Tactical Fit and Squad Dynamics
Rangers’ manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has prioritized defensive reinforcements following Calvin Bassey’s imminent £22.9m move to Ajax. Davies’ ball-playing ability and composure under pressure align with Rangers’ system, which demands defenders comfortable in possession.
Expert Insight (John McTaggart, Winbdt Tactical Analyst):
“Davies is a modern center-back—strong in duels, progressive in passing, and adaptable to a high line. At Rangers, he’ll face less relentless pressing than in the Premier League, allowing him to thrive. This could be the platform he needs to reignite his career.”
Liverpool’s Perspective: A Missed Opportunity?
Jurgen Klopp reportedly regretted Davies’ lack of opportunities, but with Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Joël Matip ahead in the pecking order, a sale made sense. The deal also reflects Liverpool’s shrewd business model—buying low, developing (or loaning), and selling at a profit.
Rangers’ Record Deal: Bassey’s Exit Paves the Way
Davies’ arrival coincides with Bassey’s record-breaking transfer to Ajax (£18.7m upfront, potentially rising to £22.9m). The Nigerian’s rise from £230,000 signing to multi-million-pound sale underscores Rangers’ ability to nurture talent—a model they’ll hope Davies can follow.
What’s Next for Davies and Rangers?
- Immediate Role: Expect Davies to compete for a starting spot alongside Connor Goldson.
- European Ambitions: His experience could prove vital in Rangers’ Champions League campaign.
- Fan Expectations: Supporters will demand quick adaptation to Scottish football’s physicality.
Final Verdict
Winbdt rates this transfer as a win-win: Liverpool profit, Rangers gain a hungry defender, and Davies gets a fresh start. If he replicates his Preston form, this could be one of the bargains of the summer.
Stay tuned to Winbdt for more transfer insights and tactical breakdowns! Share your thoughts—can Davies become a Rangers fan favorite? Comment below!