Rangers have already been connected with a handful of players this summer transfer season.
The 49ers are in town, which has prompted a flurry of transfer rumors about Rangers as the summer begins early in Govan.
Russell Martin has taken over as head coach, and numerous players are reportedly on his radar. Champions League qualifying begins next month, and the Rangers players will return to preseason later this month in preparation for the games that might pave the way to the lucrative league phase.
But who will accompany them on that journey and their desire to finish first in the Premiership? We look at nine stars who are said to be Rangers ‘targets’ this summer.
Flynn Downes (Midfielder for Southampton)
Linked over the weekend, Martin took the midfielder to Southampton during his stint at St Mary’s. The Rangers head coach rates him highly, but he might cost more than £10 million, putting new owners Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises to the test financially.
Conor Coady (Centre-back for Leicester City)
It appears to be a direct link to new sporting director Kevin Thelwell, who has worked with the seasoned English defender at Wolves and Everton. Now at Leicester City, where salaries may be an issue, he may be willing to take a pay cut in order to compete in the Premier League.
Upon his arrival at Everton, Thelwell stated: “Conor is a top-quality player whom I have had the pleasure of knowing for many years. I have no doubt that he will be a terrific addition to Everton and our team. Myself and Frank Lampard continue to work closely with our Chairman, who has unrivaled experience in player negotiations, and we are optimistic that we can achieve the additional quality we seek between now and the end of the month.”
Harry Toffolo (Left Back, Nottingham Forest)
Perhaps not an issue Rangers need to address right away, but Ridvan Yilmaz and exit rumors back to Turkey are never far away. Jefte is the second option, and it is understood the Forest defender is interested in a move to Ibrox, with Rangers checking into his status.
Metinho (Midfielder at Basel FC)
Metinho has emerged on the Rangers’ radar following a successful loan from Troyes, according to the Scottish Sun. He was a vital figure in their first championship since 2017, and they are eager to strike a contract to keep him permanently. Troyes, part of the City Group, are eager to make a deal for the youngster, but Rangers are among the clubs “who have expressed an interest in securing his signature, but Champions League-bound Basel are serious rivals.” There is also interest from the English Championship.
Jamie Vardy (Striker for Leicester City)
He is now available on a free transfer after leaving Leicester City. His goal-scoring ability is undeniable, but he is now in his late 30s and will not be available for the long term. However, it has been suggested that Rangers are interested in one particular player.
Dor Turgeman (striker for Maccabi Tel Aviv).
Israel was identified as a ‘priority target’ last week, and it remains to be seen whether the Rangers will follow that up. He recently stated on his future: “I feel fantastic and very happy. I’m not sure when this season began, but in the end, we won the league like men. Obviously, I would have wanted to win without pressure, but it’s far more satisfying when it’s difficult, and I’m pleased of everyone who was here this season. I’m glad I’m the team’s leading scorer. I am currently at Maccabi. Of course, everyone wants to live their dream in Europe, so we’ll see what happens. I’m prepared to take on the next challenge.
Tyrhys Dolan (Blackburn Rovers’ winger)
The Englishman is out of contract following years of service at Ewood Park. Celtic is also thought to be looking at his current predicament. Hasn’t committed to anyone yet and may be a cheap acquisition.
Almamy Toure (Defender; Kaiserslautern)
The defender faced them in the Europa League final for Eintracht Frankfurt, but all would be forgiven if he could assist Ibrox achieve victory again. Spent last season in the German second division with Kaiserslautern, but battled with injury and requires a move to restart his career after showing early promise with Monaco’s golden generation.
Josh Mulligan (Multiple, Dundee)
Rangers have already signed Lyall Cameron from Dens Park, and they are looking for a flexible colleague who can play numerous roles. Before stepping down as Dundee manager, Tony Docherty expressed interest: “No, not as far as I’m aware, but that doesn’t surprise me. I’ve always stated that if these players perform at the level that I believe Josh is demonstrating now, as Lyall Cameron did earlier in the season and Luke McCown before that, they would attract suitors.
“It’s essential Josh; he’s a level-headed young man who will continue to focus on his team performance. Everything is about the team right now, and we’ll see where it leads us, but all I ask is that he and the rest of the team maintain that constant level of performance.”
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