Rangers ‘Close In’ on First Transfer of 49ers Era as Star Who Broke Ibrox Hearts in Seville Is on the Table
Rangers are reportedly closing in on their first major signing under the new 49ers-backed regime — and the target is a player who once left Ibrox hearts shattered on the biggest stage of all.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the Scottish giants are in advanced talks to bring back a familiar face: Eintracht Frankfurt winger Rafael Borré, the man whose clinical penalty helped sink Rangers’ Europa League dreams in the 2022 final in Seville.
The Colombian international is understood to be available this summer as the Bundesliga outfit reshuffles its squad, and the forward has emerged as a serious option for Philippe Clement’s side as the club looks to make a statement early in the 49ers Enterprises era.
49ers Enterprises, the investment arm of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers, recently finalized a strategic partnership with Rangers, bringing a wave of American influence and financial muscle to Ibrox. With ambitions to re-establish domestic dominance and make inroads in Europe, the club is wasting no time in identifying high-impact targets.
Borré, 28, was a standout during Frankfurt’s run to Europa League glory, scoring key goals and ultimately dispatching the decisive penalty in the shootout victory over Rangers in the 2022 final. His blend of work rate, technical quality, and European experience makes him an enticing prospect for a Rangers side looking to sharpen its attack.
While a permanent transfer would likely involve a modest fee due to Borré entering the final year of his contract, wages and competition from other clubs — particularly from Spain and South America — could prove a hurdle. However, it is believed Rangers’ new backers are prepared to sanction an aggressive push to get the deal over the line.
Should the move be completed, it would mark a bold and symbolic start to the 49ers era — turning a painful memory into a powerful asset. Borré’s arrival would not only provide quality in the final third but also send a message of intent to Celtic and the rest of Scottish football.
Manager Philippe Clement has made it clear he expects several key additions this summer, particularly in forward areas, with the futures of Cyriel Dessers and Kemar Roofe uncertain. Borré’s versatility — capable of playing as a central striker or wide forward — fits the profile of the multi-functional attacker Clement is keen to add.
Fans have reacted with a mix of surprise and intrigue on social media, with many acknowledging Borré’s pedigree while joking that “he owes us one” after that unforgettable night in Seville.
Whether Borré is the man to lead Rangers’ charge under the new regime remains to be seen, but his potential arrival signals a new level of ambition — one backed by American investment and driven by a hunger to right past wrongs.
The deal is not yet complete, but with talks progressing and all sides optimistic, Ibrox could be about to welcome back a familiar face — only this time, wearing blue.
