Rangers Set for Summer Overhaul After Quiet January and Player Departures
Rangers raised eyebrows in January after opting not to significantly strengthen their squad despite ongoing struggles in both domestic and European competitions.
While the Scottish Premiership title may have already been slipping out of reach at that point, fresh additions could have boosted their Scottish Cup and Europa League campaigns. However, the club made just one signing — Portuguese defender Rafael Fernandes, who arrived on loan from Lille. Fernandes managed just 90 minutes across four appearances and failed to make a meaningful impact.
Rangers have now confirmed they will not trigger the £2.7 million purchase clause in Fernandes’ loan deal, meaning he will return to his parent club in France.
The 22-year-old is one of six players officially leaving Ibrox following the conclusion of the season. His sole start came during a disappointing Scottish Cup loss to Queen’s Park, further underlining his limited role at the club. Despite ongoing defensive issues, Fernandes was unable to secure a regular place in the team, with Barry Ferguson’s side conceding two or more goals in eight consecutive games.
His exit follows that of Leon Balogun, who previously confirmed his departure, with the club also announcing the exits of Tom Lawrence and Ianis Hagi at the end of their contracts. Additionally, Vaclav Cerny and Neraysho Kasanwirjo have returned to their parent clubs following loan spells.
Amidst these changes, Rangers are preparing for a major squad rebuild. Backed by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises, the club is expected to undergo a busy summer window with significant investment on the horizon.
Former chairman Dave King has assured supporters that Rangers will have “substantial” financial backing if the American-led takeover proceeds as planned. The club has already been linked with defensive reinforcements, including Ipswich Town’s Cameron Burgess and Estoril’s Kevin Boma.
Meanwhile, Rangers fans are taking encouragement from developments in England, where the 49ers — majority owners of newly-promoted Premier League side Leeds United — are reportedly planning a £120 million investment to solidify their top-flight position.
With the Americans showing serious intent at Elland Road, Rangers supporters will be hoping the same ambition and spending power will soon be mirrored at Ibrox.
