49ers Takeover Could Pave the Way for Rangers to Sign ‘Explosive’ Vaclav Cerny Replacement – Opinion

Rangers would certainly benefit from a timely financial boost, particularly with a busy summer transfer window on the horizon.

But what would a 49ers takeover truly mean for this storied club?

At the club’s Annual General Meeting in December, former chairman Alistair Johnston raised the possibility of Rangers operating within a ‘multi-club’ model.

While such a setup could offer significant advantages—just look at Girona’s rise through their association with Manchester City—many Rangers fans might be uneasy about their beloved institution becoming just another component in a larger football empire.

This is why the 49ers’ links to the Red Bull group have sparked widespread discussion.

Red Bull, the energy drink conglomerate behind the success of RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg, has been a game-changer in football, though not without controversy, particularly among traditionalists who value football’s heritage over corporate influence.

However, Rangers News has learned that while Red Bull is keeping a close eye on the takeover discussions, supporters shouldn’t expect to see ‘Red Bull Rangers’ anytime soon—nor should they anticipate guzzling taurine-filled drinks at Ibrox in the near future.

What the 49ers and Red Bull Could Mean for Rangers

The recent partnership between Red Bull and Leeds United provides some insight into what might happen at Rangers.

Last year, Red Bull became a minority investor in Leeds, a club controlled by the 49ers, with chairman Paraag Marathe at the helm.

The only visible sign of Red Bull’s involvement so far has been their logo on the club’s kit—no name change, no rebranding of Elland Road.

Similarly, sources indicate that Marathe is unlikely to assume the chairman role at Ibrox, easing concerns about a complete corporate overhaul.

With those potential worries addressed, the focus now shifts to the more exciting possibilities—particularly the impact significant investment could have on Rangers’ transfer plans.

Technical director Nils Koppen has successfully implemented a youth-focused recruitment strategy, bringing in talents like Hamza Igamane, Jefte, Connor Barron, Lyall Cameron, and Clinton Nsiala.

This approach aligns well with Red Bull’s football philosophy, as evidenced by Salzburg’s history of nurturing stars such as Sadio Mané, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Erling Haaland before selling them for substantial fees.

Given this shared vision, Rangers could soon become a prime destination for some of Europe’s most promising young talents under the 49ers’ stewardship.

Joe Gelhardt: A Potential Target

Another name to watch closely is Joe Gelhardt.

The Leeds United striker was linked with Rangers in January before opting for a loan move to Hull City.

With a new centre-forward likely on Rangers’ summer wishlist—considering Cyriel Dessers is now 31 and Danilo’s ongoing injury struggles—Gelhardt’s connection to Leeds, Marathe, and the 49ers could pave the way for a fresh approach from the Ibrox side.

At just 22, Gelhardt has yet to fully establish himself at Elland Road, but his talent remains undeniable.

A prime example was his stunning long-range goal during Hull’s recent loss to Queens Park Rangers—an effort reminiscent of the form that once earned him comparisons to Wayne Rooney.

Described as ‘explosive and powerful’ by Wigan Athletic’s former academy manager in the Yorkshire Evening Post, Gelhardt initially built his reputation as a centre-forward.

However, his versatility has come into play at Hull, where head coach Rubén Sellés has frequently deployed him as a right-sided winger, allowing him to cut inside onto his favored left foot.

If Rangers are unable to secure Vaclav Černý on a permanent deal—Wolfsburg’s asking price may be difficult to meet regardless of a takeover—Gelhardt could offer an alternative, strengthening the team’s attacking options while filling the gap left by the prolific Czech forward.

Sellés has provided insight into his reasoning for using Gelhardt in a wider role, saying:

“I see him more coming from the wing to the centre because his physical attributes in terms of the intensity and the pressing are really good. I see him more [in a] dynamic winger position, but he also can play in the centre.”

Should Rangers rekindle their interest in Gelhardt, his adaptability could prove invaluable, offering tactical flexibility and an added goal threat in multiple attacking roles.

With a potential takeover on the horizon, the summer transfer window could be transformative for Rangers.

Whether it leads to marquee signings, a deepened partnership with Red Bull, or simply an injection of fresh talent, the coming months promise to be a fascinating period for the club and its supporters.