Rangers director of football Mark Allen believes the signing of Ryan Kent proves Gers are serious contenders to wrestle the Scottish Premiership title from Celtic.

Kent finally joined the Ibrox club after months of waiting and discussions.

Allen has revealed Gers were always keen to get the deal done, despite previously appearing to admit defeat when told the winger would not be permitted to leave on loan.

Rangers seal £7 million deal for Ryan Kent

And he and the club are pleased to have finally sealed the deal as it signals a major statement of intent.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Allen said: "We made our intentions very clear right at the start of the window - Ryan was a key target and we got there in the end.

“Ryan enjoyed his time at Rangers and he was obviously keen to come back but the respect enjoyed by both clubs certainly helped us. 

“It says a lot for the support and the vision of the board in terms of where it wants to get Rangers to.

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"Obviously, like all businesses it needs to be done in a prudent manner.

"And over the last few years, the board and everyone at the club, we've put it back on an even keel with a sensible business approach.

“Obviously on the playing side, European qualification has helped us and we’re now getting to the point where Rangers is in a place where hopefully we can move forward."