Rangers continue to attract fresh speculation as Derek McInnes reshapes his squad ahead of a massive campaign. Although several deals have already reached completion, the rumour mill around Ibrox continues to gather speed every single day. Consequently, supporters continue to analyse every report and every update as Rangers transfer gossip dominates discussion among the Light Blues faithful.
Defensive targets continue to dominate
The biggest story still surrounds Ben Godfrey. The former Everton defender continues to receive strong links with Rangers and many reports suggest the move sits very close to completion. His experience at the highest level appeals to supporters who believe Rangers need greater authority at the back. However, many fans also expect another central defender even if Godfrey arrives.
Meanwhile, James Penrice remains a name that supporters continue to discuss. His Scottish Premiership experience makes him an attractive option and he would provide valuable competition on the left side. Likewise, Nathan Patterson refuses to disappear from transfer conversations despite the financial obstacles involved in bringing him back to Ibrox.
There also remains curiosity over Emmanuel Fernandez. After an impressive season many supporters wonder whether interest from elsewhere could develop. There have been claims of Rennes taking interest. Therefore Rangers may still require another defensive addition before the transfer window closes.
Midfield continues to create excitement
The midfield rumour list remains just as busy.
Many supporters still dream of Lewis Ferguson returning to Scotland. His leadership, technical quality and Rangers background make him one of the most popular names linked with Ibrox. Nevertheless, Rangers know that any deal would prove difficult because his current club Bologna values him highly.
Another player generating significant discussion remains Cammy Devlin. McInnes carefully avoided discussing players under contract at Hearts during his unveiling. Consequently, many supporters interpreted those comments as encouragement regarding the Australian midfielder because he has become available. Sources claim this deal is done.
Attention also remains firmly fixed on Nico Raskin. Several clubs across Europe continue to monitor the Belgian and rumours involving Italy refuse to disappear. Rangers have not accepted an offer and no transfer appears close. Even so, supporters recognise that a substantial bid could change the situation quickly. Hull’s £14M was rejected.
Meanwhile, Vaclav Cerny continues to receive occasional mentions from supporters who would welcome another attempt to secure the winger if circumstances changed later in the summer. And there have been mentions in the press of him.
Bailey Rice has now of course completed his season-long loan to Kilmarnock and we wish him the best of luck.
Goalkeeper links continue to emerge
The goalkeeper position has also become increasingly interesting.
Although Jack Butland remains Rangers first choice, speculation continues to suggest the club has explored alternatives. Consequently, several names now appear regularly across transfer reports.
Radek Vitek of Man Utd has attracted attention because of his potential and his impressive performances on loan. Ivor Pandur also continues to receive strong links after an excellent campaign for Hull. In addition, Sebastiano Desplanches of Palermo remains another goalkeeper reportedly under consideration as Rangers assess every available option.
Supporters remain divided over whether Rangers actually need a new number one. However, most agree that stronger competition can only improve standards throughout the squad.
The rumour mill still has plenty to offer
The transfer window remains wide open and Rangers supporters expect further twists before competitive football returns. Therefore every fresh report attracts enormous interest around Ibrox.
At present Ben Godfrey appears closest to joining. Lewis Ferguson remains the dream signing despite obvious difficulties. Cammy Devlin continues to generate optimism while Nico Raskin still attracts exit speculation. Meanwhile, Vaclav Cerny, Nathan Patterson, James Penrice, Radek Vitek, Ivor Pandur and Sebastiano Desplanches all remain firmly within the conversation.
McInnes clearly wants greater quality, stronger leadership and better competition throughout the Rangers squad. Consequently, supporters should expect the Rangers transfer gossip to continue gathering momentum throughout the coming weeks. Every update will receive intense scrutiny around Ibrox because the Rangers transfer gossip has become one of the biggest stories of the summer.