The left-back position at Rangers is under increasing scrutiny following another underwhelming domestic campaign at Ibrox.
While young Brazilian Jefte has emerged as a surprise regular and is even attracting interest from Chelsea, the 20-year-old has featured more than most at Rangers likely anticipated. Meanwhile, Ridvan Yilmaz has struggled to stay fit, spending much of the season sidelined with injuries.
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday, who has previously filled in at left-back himself, has now urged his former club to consider signing a Scottish Premiership standout he believes is an upgrade on both current options. However, Halliday cautions that even such a move may not be enough to close the gap on Celtic.
Halliday Backs Penrice but Says More is Needed
Speaking on the Open Goal podcast, Halliday threw his support behind a potential move for Hearts left-back James Penrice, suggesting the defender is a better option than either Jefte or Yilmaz. Rangers have already agreed a deal to sign Lyall Cameron from Dundee, with his teammate Josh Mulligan also on their radar.
Although Dundee are eager to retain Mulligan, discussion turned to other possible summer recruits, with Penrice’s name emerging. Halliday endorsed the idea but stressed the need for additional reinforcements.
“I would take [Penrice]. I think he’s better than the left-backs they’ve currently got,” said Halliday. “But I still think they need to sign someone else.”
Celtic’s Taylor Still Sets the Standard
Rangers have also been linked with a move for Celtic’s Greg Taylor, whose contract at Parkhead is nearing its end. Yet even if Rangers opt for Penrice instead, Halliday believes Taylor—despite possibly becoming Celtic’s second-choice left-back—still offers more quality than the Hearts man.
“If Rangers want to catch Celtic, they have to sign players who are better than Celtic’s players,” Halliday stated. “I don’t think Penrice gets ahead of Greg Taylor.”
With a major squad overhaul on the cards this summer, Halliday acknowledges the challenge ahead but sees an opportunity for positive transformation. “It’s going to be a long summer, but there’s potential for a lot of change. Still, there’s plenty of work to do if Rangers want to match Celtic.”
