Rangers beat EPL clubs to striker signing as Celtic set to lose attacking starlet to Manchester City

The head of Rangers’ academy Craig Mulholland is delighted with the signing of James Graham. Picture: SNS

Rangers have announced the signing of highly-sought after teenager James Graham.

The 16-year-old arrives from Ross County and will join the Ibrox club’s academy.

Graham has attracted interest from down south with Rangers beating off fierce competition to land the striker. Wolves were reported to be keen, while he has spent time with both Manchester United and Liverpool.

Craig Mulholland, the club’s head of academy, told Rangers website: “I am delighted to welcome James to Rangers. James was in high demand from EPL clubs and another in Scotland and it is an important part of our strategy that we secure Scotland’s brightest talent first. It is testimony to the quality of programme and staff we now have that he has chosen Rangers ahead of some top English Academies for the next few years of his education.

“Our recruitment team and coaching staff have watched James on many occasions and he scored an excellent goal against us in the Youth Cup quarter-final. He is a dynamic, quick and tenacious forward with excellent energy and finishing abilities. As a Rangers fan, I know James can’t wait to get started and we look forward to welcoming him to the Academy in the near future.”

Across the city, rivals Celtic are set to lose attacking midfielder Josh Adam to Manchester City, according to reports in England.

Another highly-rated Scottish talent, the 16-year-old will move to the Premier League side this summer after they won the race ahead of English and German sides vying for his signature.

It’s not the first time one of Celtic’s exciting young talents has been prised away. Last year Liam Morrison left the club for German giants Bayern Munich.