Rangers have intensified their pursuit of defensive reinforcements under manager Derek McInnes, following a 1-1 draw against Dundee United that has raised concerns over team complacency. The club is actively engaged in talks to acquire James Penrice, a defender from AEK Athens, while also exploring a loan deal for Scotland international centre-back Scott McKenna. These moves come as the Ibrox side aims to strengthen their backline ahead of crucial European fixtures.
Depending on the outcome of their upcoming Europa League qualifier against Jagiellonia Bialystok, Rangers will either advance to face Larne or Iberia 1999 in the play-offs or drop into the Europa Conference League to contend with Jablonec or RFS. This European campaign adds urgency to the club’s transfer ambitions.
Echoing the club’s need for progress, former footballer Gaizka Mendieta commented on Rangers’ absence from the Champions League, urging the team to make a significant impact this summer, particularly in the wake of Celtic securing the Scottish Premiership title.
Transfer Targets and Squad Developments
Aside from defensive options, Rangers have their eyes on winger Camilo Mena of Lechia Gdansk. The Colombian player has impressed during the past season, and with Lechia facing possible relegation, the club’s £3.4 million asking price for Mena could potentially decrease. This strategic monitoring highlights Rangers’ intent to bolster their attacking options as well.
Meanwhile, former Rangers loanee Mikey Moore is on the verge of securing another loan spell, this time at Köln. Moore’s previous stint at Ibrox during the 2025-26 season was notable, having scored seven goals and earned two young player awards, underscoring his potential and value.
The future of young midfielder Tochi Chukwuani appears uncertain after being sidelined in the recent match at Dundee United. Football analyst Jonny McFarlane has expressed doubts about Chukwuani remaining at Rangers beyond the summer transfer window, suggesting that changes in the squad are imminent.
Additionally, speculation regarding a possible transfer of defender John Souttar from Rangers to Celtic has been firmly denied by club sources. Despite this, injuries within the team could compel Derek McInnes to call upon Souttar’s services in the near future.
Rangers insiders have also noted the £3 million signing of Olwethu Makhanya as a significant acquisition, though details on his integration into the squad remain forthcoming.
With European competition looming and domestic challenges mounting, Rangers are clearly in the market for reinforcements to ensure they remain competitive across all fronts during the upcoming season.