Go Ahead Eagles Chief Executive Officer Jan Willem van Dop offered a surprising, and telling, comparison this week as he reflected on recent transfer dealings involving both sides of the Old Firm.
Speaking about interest in Danish winger Oliver Breum, van Dop remarked: “There was some interest from Celtic for Breum, but we felt the gap was too wide.”
He then turned his attention to Rangers, saying: “Things moved very quickly with Antman & Rangers. Celtic could have taken a leaf out of Rangers’ book.”
It may have been said with a smile, but the message is clear: Rangers got their business done swiftly and decisively, while their city rivals dragged their feet.
For supporters at Ibrox, this is not just a refreshing shift, it’s a statement of intent.
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Under new head coach Russell Martin, backed by the recruitment team headed by sporting director Kevin Thelwell and technical director Dan Purdy, Rangers appear to be executing a well-planned recruitment strategy, identifying key targets early and moving efficiently to get them through the door.
The signing of Finnish international Mikael Antman, a player with pace, flair and attacking instincts, who immediately impressed on his debut on Tuesday against Czech side Viktoria Plzen represents exactly the kind of profile the new-look Rangers are prioritising.
Van Dop’s comments inadvertently shine a light on Rangers’ growing reputation across the continent.
The days of hesitation and muddled transfer windows seem to be giving way to a more modern, assertive approach, one that appeals to both players and selling clubs.
As for Celtic, they may have deep pockets, but if their negotiation tactics are being publicly questioned by club chiefs in the Eredivisie, it suggests the balance of power, at least off the pitch for now, is shifting in Scotland.
Rangers are moving with purpose, clarity, and ambition. And when executives like Jan Willem van Dop are praising the Ibrox side’s business acumen, it’s further proof that Europe is taking notice.
We don’t imagine Celtic will be calling up any more clubs to question Rangers financial ability as they did in the past, notably with Rangers bids to sign Jamie Murphy and Morgan Whittaker.