Rangers transfer activity is expected to intensify with the clock ticking on the pre-season programme as well as the Scottish Premiership opener with Dundee United on July 31.
Player trading is anticipated in both directions ahead of the trip to the City of Discovery at the end of the month, and this morning, further information has emerged on the latest developments.
As reported by the Rangers Review, the club has prioritised a central defender, a centre-midfielder and a key right wing option – with an inverted left-footed player said to be favoured by Derek McInnes.
Rangers transfer activity to follow ahead of season opener
Olwethu Makhanya has emerged as one of the shortlisted options for Rangers to enhance the back line.
The South African World Cup squad member, 22, currently plies his trade with Philadelphia Union in MLS, with Rangers weighing up a bid.
At present, most of the midfield attention is centred around the pursuits of Jens Hjerto-Dahl and Vanja Dragojevic, but it’s still unclear if there is space and scope for both players to arrive at Ibrox.
Rangers are thought to be in negotiations with Tromso and Partizan Belgrade, respectively, with further movement to follow.
Potential arrivals and departures at Ibrox
Stephy Mavididi emerged last night as a reported target, with the £7 million-rated attacker said to be the subject of serious interest from Rangers.
The 28-year-old Derby-born player appears to be on his way out of Leicester City, with the Foxes set to play in League One this season.
Russell Martin’s side will need to adjust their squad and wage bill for the realities of life in the third tier, but one man potentially moving in the opposite direction is John Souttar.
The Scotland international did not make the Spanish training camp with Rangers due to an impending exit from the club.
Danilo was also omitted from the group, and he has interest from Brazil, the Netherlands and Greece. He has proven to be an expensive error for Rangers, with two seasons left on the five-year deal penned in 2023.
A permanent departure is in the best interests of the player and Rangers, but his signifcant wage could be an obstacle in the way.
Derek McInnes’ side needs to be as ready as possible for the season opener on July 31, and with the squad returning from Spain this weekend, the race is on to get new recruits bedded in for the start of the campaign.
