Rangers Face Another Contract Dilemma as Tom Lawrence Nears Ibrox Exit
One of Philippe Clement’s biggest frustrations at Rangers was the club’s ineffective contract strategy, which saw key players allowed to run down their deals. Clement previously took aim at former sporting director Ross Wilson, criticizing the state of the squad and the club’s handling of expiring contracts.
With Rangers reducing their wage bill by £6 million this summer, Alex Rae believes the high turnover ultimately worked against Clement at Ibrox. However, the club does not appear to be shifting its approach, as reports suggest another experienced player is set to depart on a free transfer.
Tom Lawrence Set to Leave Rangers
Rangers will soon have a decision to make regarding Tom Lawrence, whose contract expires at the end of the season. The 31-year-old has battled injury setbacks but recently returned to action and even earned a recall to the Wales squad for the March internationals.
Lawrence has shown his value in recent matches, including a stunning long-range equalizer against Dundee, prompting fans to question his future at the club. While initial reports suggested Rangers had an option to extend his deal for a fourth year, the Daily Mail now claims no such clause exists, meaning Lawrence is on track to become a free agent in June.
His time at Ibrox has been plagued by misfortune. After joining Rangers in 2022 ahead of Premier League interest, the former Derby County captain suffered a serious knee injury, significantly limiting his impact in Glasgow.
Lawrence Attracts Interest from Multiple Clubs
As Lawrence considers his next move, at least nine clubs have reportedly expressed interest in signing him. Championship promotion hopefuls Wrexham, backed by Hollywood investors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are among the frontrunners as they push for a place in the second tier.
Several Championship sides—including Burnley, Coventry City, West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough, and Blackburn Rovers—are also monitoring his situation. Meanwhile, Turkish giants Besiktas were linked with Lawrence in January, and the midfielder is once again rumored to be on the radar of former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
With his contract running down and plenty of suitors circling, it seems increasingly likely that Lawrence will bid farewell to Ibrox this summer.
