Calvin Bassey tipped to head Rangers transfer exits as Paul Murray reckons smart sales will help catch Celtic

Former director Paul Murray insists it's vital Rangers lift the Premiership trophy next season after the run to Seville.

And he reckons some shrewd work in the transfer market could see the title brought back to Govan from Celtic Park.

Rangers went all the way to the Europa League final before they lost 5-4 in a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out to Eintracht Frankfurt.

That came just days after Ange Postecoglou 's side had confirmed themselves as champions and having taken the title back from Ibrox.

Murray, who played a key part in Dave King's boardroom takeover at Rangers in March 2015, reckons a domestic focus could be key.

He told PA News agency: "As (former Liverpool manager) Bill Shankly said, the league title is your bread and butter.

"That's what you go for at the start of the season and ultimately the league table doesn't lie.

"The best team in the country tends to win the championship. So I think it is really important.

"It is great that both (Old Firm) teams are really strong, there isn't a lot between the teams.

"There is no question that Rangers are back. Celtic did really well last year and you have to praise the new manager (Ange Postecoglou) for the fantastic job."

Gio van Bronckhorst and sporting director Ross Wilson face a busy summer as they look to rebuild the squad.

Connor Goldson appears to be nearing the exit with just days left on his contract, and the status of Allan McGregor, Leon Balogun and Steven Davis remain up in the air.

Aside from the free agents, Calvin Bassey is attracting interest from Aston Villa after an impressive end to the campaign.

Murray reckons the exit of the Nigeria international could play a key role in revamping the squad this summer.

He said: "Recruitment in football