‘Not a Priority’: Ally McCoist Says It Would Be ‘Madness’ for Rangers to Sign £3m Star This Summer

Back in the summer of 1989, it was an extraordinary occurrence for a player to represent both sides of the Old Firm divide.

In fact, Mo Johnston became only the second player since World War Two to switch directly from the green and white of Celtic to the royal blue of Rangers—or vice versa.

Fast-forward to today, and while such transfers are still notable, the intensity of the backlash has arguably diminished.

As Rangers legend Ally McCoist puts it, the idea of a player turning out for both Celtic and Rangers is “probably not as big a deal as it was years and years ago.”

That sentiment is particularly relevant now, as speculation grows around Greg Taylor potentially making the controversial move to Ibrox once his contract at Celtic Park comes to an end.

Although such a switch would once have caused uproar, modern-day reactions are likely to be far more muted.

McCoist, speaking with the Daily Record, echoes the views of others like Kris Boyd in suggesting that Taylor would be a solid addition to Rangers’ first team.

At 27, the left-back is a 14-time Scotland international and a key contributor in what may be his final season in green and white.

Should he depart Celtic in the summer, he could do so with five Scottish Premiership winner’s medals to his name.

Taylor’s career path adds an intriguing layer to the conversation.

Long before he made his name at Kilmarnock and later moved to Celtic, Taylor actually spent six formative years within Rangers’ academy.

This background sets him apart from other players, such as Scott Brown or Neil Lennon, whose allegiances during their playing careers were firmly planted in green.

“He could absolutely get into the team and play. I’ve no doubt about that,” McCoist asserts. “He’s a very good player, and I genuinely believe he could slot into the starting XI.”

However, the question remains: just because Greg Taylor could play for Rangers, does that mean the club actually needs him?

McCoist isn’t so sure. While acknowledging Taylor’s quality, he’s quick to point out that Rangers already have two promising young left-backs under contract—Ridvan Yilmaz and Jefte.

Though neither has quite hit the same heights as Taylor just yet, both still have significant room for growth and development.

With that in mind, McCoist believes Rangers should prioritize other positions during the summer transfer window.

“If you look at what the team really needs, a new left-back just isn’t a priority,” he explains. “You’ve already got Yilmaz and Jefte.

There are bigger gaps to fill—possibly a replacement for Jack Butland, at least one central defender, a couple of wingers, and maybe a striker. A left-sided full-back is far down the list.”

That being said, McCoist isn’t dismissing Taylor’s ability—only the club’s current needs.

“If you’re asking me whether he’s good enough to play for Rangers, then yes, without a doubt,” he says.

“I was there when Mo Johnston made the switch, and after that, anything’s possible. Compared to Mo, nothing would ever be as big a deal again.

Players like Kenny Miller and Alfie Conn also crossed the divide. It’s just not viewed the same way it was years ago.”

Still, McCoist doesn’t believe a move for Taylor is likely.

“Given the current options, it would be madness for Rangers to strengthen a position where they already have cover when other areas need immediate attention,” he adds.

“If I were managing Rangers, my focus would be on signing the best players available to strengthen the team—regardless of whether they come from Celtic, Hibs, or Aberdeen.”

Meanwhile, Rangers have already taken a step toward improving their squad.

Talks are currently ongoing with Dundee over compensation for Lyall Cameron, a young talent expected to boost the team significantly once the deal is finalized.