Rangers fans have every reason to be optimistic about a potential financial windfall from Malik Tillman’s reported transfer to Bayer Leverkusen.
The American midfielder, who impressed during his loan spell at Ibrox in the 2022/23 season, has been turning heads at PSV Eindhoven since making his permanent move.
Thanks to a smart piece of business by the club, Rangers included a 10% sell-on clause when agreeing to Tillman’s move from Bayern Munich should the midfielder have refused to join the club permanently and head elsewhere, which he eventually did.
This means that if the reported €30 million transfer to Leverkusen is completed, Rangers would stand to receive around €3 million, which is roughly £2.6 million.
This sell-on clause was part of a settlement with Bayern Munich, who had the option to buy Tillman back. Bayern chose not to exercise that option, but thanks to the clause, Rangers remain in line for a share of any future transfer fee.
Tillman has been in excellent form at PSV, netting 12 league goals and a further 3 goals and five assists in the UEFA Champions League.
His performances have understandably attracted interest from top European clubs, with Bayer Leverkusen among those reportedly keen to bring him in to boost their squad following some recent departures.
While the €30 million figure has yet to be officially confirmed, all signs point towards Rangers soon benefiting financially from Tillman’s rising stock. This potential boost would come at a perfect time and is a rare example of a savvy off pitch deal from the club.
Such smart deal-making is a rare but vital part of Rangers’ strategy in the modern game.
In a landscape where financial muscle often dictates success, securing a sell-on clause like this shows the club’s growing ability to protect its interests and generate revenue beyond the pitch.
Moments like these remind fans that smart business is just as important as strong performances on it. If this deal goes through, it will be a welcome example of Rangers punching above their weight off the field as well as on it.