Could Allen make his Mark at Rangers by beating Everton to Lukas Nmecha?

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Former Manchester City academy chief Mark Allen is Rangers’ Director of Football – but could he bring Lukas Nmecha with him to Ibrox?

With Rangers still yet to appoint a permanent successor to Pedro Caixinha and with the likes of Derek McInnes and Michael O’Neill seemingly slipping through their grasp, director of football Mark Allen will take control of transfers during the January window.

That is according to interim coach Graeme Murty anyway, who told the Daily Record that Allen will have the final say on incomings and outgoings. But the former Manchester City academy boss could use his connections to Rangers advantage – particularly with one of the most exciting young strikers in English football seemingly up for grabs.

As reported by The Sun, City’s powerhouse frontman Lukas Nmecha is out of contract in the summer and could be on his way as early as January. Everton, who have made it their mission to put together one of the most fearsome academy systems in English football are reportedly hoping to lure Nmecha to Goodison Park in the New Year.

Everton would certainly have a huge talent on their hands. The 18-year-old has scored five goals in nine Premier League 2 games this season and has a remarkable record for the Under-18s side – and was even included on the bench for City’s EFL Cup clash with Wolves in October.

But Allen, who revolutionised Manchester City’s vaunted academy during his time at The Etihad, knows Nmecha well. And after Rangers landed winger Aaron Nemane from City in the summer, Allen should attempt to pave the way to bring Nmecha to Ibrox too.

Rangers fans are yet to see what Allen can really offer after a disappointing summer recruitment drive led largely by Pedro Caixinha. But signing Nmecha, one of England’s most exciting talents, would justify their decision to hand him the director of football role.