49ers lure already pays off as Moore to Rangers transfer update drops
Rangers’ pursuit of Nottingham Forest forward Ben Moore has taken a significant turn, with reports suggesting that the Ibrox club are increasingly confident of securing his signature — thanks in part to the growing influence of the 49ers Enterprises ownership model within British football.
The American investment group, who hold controlling stakes in Leeds United and have extensive sporting interests in the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers, have created pathways for cross-club negotiations and player development opportunities that Scottish clubs are now looking to capitalise on. Rangers, under manager Russell Martin, are believed to have made Moore a priority target this summer as they continue reshaping their frontline following the departures of several key attackers.
Moore, 22, has struggled for regular minutes at Forest amid their Premier League survival battles, yet remains highly regarded for his pace and versatility across the front line. Sources close to the player indicate he is open to a move that offers European football and the chance to become a central figure, something Rangers can provide with their Champions League qualifiers looming in August.
Talks Accelerating
Negotiations between the two clubs are understood to have accelerated in recent days. While initial enquiries were met with resistance from Forest, who value Moore at around £5 million, Rangers’ sporting director Nils Koppen is believed to have proposed a structured deal involving an initial loan with an obligation to buy — a formula similar to recent transfers brokered with Championship clubs.
The involvement of the 49ers group, who maintain strong business ties with Rangers’ American investors, has reportedly smoothed communications and created optimism that a compromise can be reached. It’s suggested that Rangers may secure Moore for a lower upfront fee, with Forest retaining a sell-on clause to safeguard future profits.
Martin’s Vision
Russell Martin has made no secret of his desire to inject pace and youth into Rangers’ squad ahead of the new Scottish Premiership campaign. After the arrivals of Max Aarons and Nasser Djiga earlier this window, Moore is seen as the ideal complement to Cyriel Dessers in attack, offering a different dimension against packed defences.
“Ben is the type of player who fits our style — dynamic, direct, and hungry to prove himself,” a source close to Ibrox recruitment told Football Insider. “We know there’s competition, but we’re confident.”
Fan Reaction and Next Steps
News of the potential deal has ignited excitement among Rangers supporters, many of whom see Moore as a long-term project with immediate impact potential. With pre-season fixtures underway and Champions League qualifiers fast approaching, the club are keen to finalise the transfer within the next fortnight.
Should the deal materialise, it would mark another sign of how American investment — and particularly the 49ers’ growing footprint in UK football — is influencing the transfer landscape north of the border.
