Rangers and Celtic are both vying to secure a permanent deal for Luca Stephenson from Liverpool this summer. According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, the fierce Old Firm competitors are keeping a close eye on the 22-year-old’s performances at Dundee United. Originally from Sunderland, Stephenson has represented England at the youth level and has spent the last two seasons on loan at Tannadice Park.
He’s emerged as one of the most intriguing young talents in the Scottish Premiership. Liverpool signed him to a long-term contract in August 2025, but may consider letting him go for the right fee due to their deep squad. Rangers are looking at him as a potential long-term successor to their captain, and both clubs are preparing formal bids this summer, igniting a competitive chase for his signature.
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Consistent performance and emerging leadership
During the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season, Stephenson netted four goals and provided three assists. He played 2,209 minutes in 25 matches, achieving a FotMob rating of 6.98, along with accumulating six yellow cards. Over two seasons with Dundee United, he has made 66 appearances. Notably, he increased his overall goal involvements from five last season to nine this year, demonstrating consistent improvement and the ability to perform beyond a one-season wonder. Recently, he even captained his team in a match against Motherwell. His versatility in playing both defensive midfield and right-back offers valuable tactical flexibility for managers.
Is signing Stephenson a priority for Celtic this summer?
DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – MARCH 22: Kieran Tierney of Celtic is challenged by Luca Stephenson of Dundee United during the William Hill Premiership match between Dundee United and Celtic at Tannadice Park on March 22, 2026 in Dundee, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)
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The situation surrounding Stephenson is both intriguing and somewhat overlooked. Celtic has a strong lineup already featuring numerous options in wide positions and midfield. Acquiring Stephenson would only benefit the team if Martin O’Neil, or his future replacement, can effectively utilize his defensive attributes in a designated role. Expecting him to replicate his current attacking statistics at a higher intensity on a weekly basis could be unrealistic.
Stephenson is valued at €900,000 on Transfermarkt, presenting an appealing opportunity. However, investing in talent without a concrete strategy can lead to ineffective recruitment. His six yellow cards indicate a level of aggression suited to Scottish football, yet he could struggle to adapt under the stricter scrutiny of Champions League referees. While Celtic is in need of reinforcements, Rangers might present him with a clearer role and a quicker route to becoming an integral part of the team.