Rangers are reportedly in discussions to sign Malian defender Almamy Toure.
The 29-year-old centre-back has emerged as a potential addition to the squad as Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises finalize their takeover of the Ibrox club.
On Friday, it was officially confirmed that the American consortium is now in control at Rangers, with Cavenagh stepping in as chairman and Paraag Marathe, president of 49ers Enterprises, taking the role of vice-chairman.
Gretar Steinsson, the group’s technical director, has been heavily involved in the managerial appointment process ahead of Kevin Thelwell’s arrival as director of football on Monday (2 June), and it appears transfer activity is also underway — with Toure among the names being considered.
Toure linked with free transfer to Ibrox
According to The Sunday Post, Toure is “available” and being targeted as a free agent following the expiration of his contract at German side Kaiserslautern.
The publication reported on its sports front page (1 June) that negotiations have taken place regarding a potential move to bring the former Eintracht Frankfurt defender to Glasgow.
This past season, Toure featured just eight times in the 2. Bundesliga due to a combination of suspensions and injury setbacks. However, he boasts significant top-level experience, with over 100 appearances across Germany’s Bundesliga and France’s Ligue 1, having played for Frankfurt and Monaco. He also has Champions League pedigree and was part of the Frankfurt squad that beat Rangers in the 2022 Europa League final.
Primarily a central defender, Toure can also slot in at right-back when needed.
Rangers begin transfer business under new ownership
Should Toure become the first signing under the new 49ers regime, it may be viewed with mixed feelings by fans.
While his age and European experience are positives, concerns remain over his recent fitness record — with just 33 appearances over the last three campaigns. Since helping Frankfurt lift the Europa League, recurring injuries have limited his involvement significantly.
Unless Rangers see him strictly as depth for the squad, they may be wise to tread carefully with this deal.
