James Sands to Rangers transfer fee revealed as New York City set for £4.5m payday if Van Bronckhorst is impressed

Rangers will have to fork out £4.5 million for James Sands if they want to trigger their option to buy the American.

That's according to MLS insider Tom Bogert - who reckons it's a stick-on that Rangers will keep him.

Sands arrived in January on an 18-month loan and has been used as a squad player by Gio van Bronckhorst so far.

His versatility has made him an asset although he only managed seven starts in the second half of the season.

The 21-year-old is getting set for his first full season at Ibrox and will be hoping to prove himself and earn a permanent move.

He won't come cheap though as Bogert reports he'll cost around £4.5m.

Writing on Twitter he said: "Was told Rangers' purchase clause for on-loan NYCFC and USMNT defender James Sands is $6 million. Dunno if there was a loan fee too or not.

"I would assume Rangers will trigger that. Think he'll be really good this year."

In total Sands has managed 14 appearances but the jury will be out on whether he is worth that outlay.

He has been used in central midfield and at centre-back but he'll have stern competition in both positions next season.

John Souttar arrives to replace Leon Balogun at the back while Steven Davis' contract extension means Van Bronckhorst's midfield isn't getting any weaker.