Rangers Sources Reveal New Transfer Strategy Amid ‘Russell Martin Concerns’
Rangers have reportedly shifted their transfer strategy ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with sources inside Ibrox revealing a more focused and cautious recruitment approach amid growing concerns over new manager Russell Martin’s transition into the Glasgow hot seat.
After another underwhelming season in which the Light Blues finished without silverware, the pressure is firmly on Martin to restore Rangers’ dominance in Scottish football. But internal doubts have emerged regarding the club’s recent recruitment policy and its alignment with Martin’s tactical philosophy — prompting a strategic rethink at boardroom level.
Concerns Emerge Over Martin’s Start
While Martin arrived at Ibrox with high expectations following a progressive spell at Southampton, some within the club are said to be worried about how quickly he can impose his style — a possession-heavy, high-risk brand of football — on a squad that has underperformed and lacks the technical cohesion he typically demands.
“There’s recognition that the current squad needs significant changes to suit Russell’s system,” one source close to the club revealed. “But there are also questions about whether he’ll be given the right tools in time to compete from the start.”
Focus Shifts to ‘Proven Mentality and Flexibility’
In response to these growing concerns, Rangers are now said to be targeting players with a proven winning mentality, physical robustness, and tactical adaptability — attributes seen as critical to surviving the pressures of both Scottish domestic football and European competition.
Unlike last summer’s window, which saw a heavy emphasis on younger, high-potential foreign imports, the 2025 strategy will reportedly aim for a more balanced mix of experience and youth. The club has already begun drawing up a shortlist of players from the English Championship, Bundesliga, and Eredivisie who fit this revised profile.
“Rangers are trying to avoid high-risk gambles on players needing too much adaptation,” the insider added. “There’s a stronger desire now to bring in professionals who can hit the ground running and understand what it takes to win in demanding environments.”
Transfer Budget & Board Expectations
With a number of high-profile exits anticipated — including potential sales of Cyriel Dessers, Todd Cantwell, and Ridvan Yilmaz — Rangers are expected to raise upwards of £30–40 million in player sales. This will provide Martin and the recruitment team with the financial backing to rebuild, but sources indicate that any spending will now be far more data-driven and scrutinised.
The board is also believed to be holding Martin to strict performance expectations. While there’s patience for a transitional period, early Champions League qualifiers and domestic form will be crucial to maintaining support from within the club hierarchy.
Looking Ahead
The next few months will define Russell Martin’s tenure at Rangers. While the club remains publicly supportive, the behind-the-scenes pivot in transfer strategy suggests a desire to mitigate risks and avoid past mistakes.
Supporters will be eager to see new signings arrive soon, especially ones that signal ambition and readiness for a title fight. Whether Martin can unite this new-look squad and deliver results quickly will determine if he becomes the man to lead Rangers into a new era — or just another chapter in their recent cycle of change.
