Rangers switch pre-season to Spain, transfer moves take shape
Rangers must decide Alexander Smith’s next step after a strong Dumbarton loan. Arbroath, Stenhousemuir and East Kilbride want him, with standard or co-operation loan options on the table.
Lyon are readying a bid above Youssef Chermiti’s price, threatening Rangers’ move as McInnes rebuilds with Shankland, Godfrey, Dan Neil, Ross McCrorie and Ivor Pandur.
John Souttar headlines Rangers players entering final year. Exiled duo Jose Cifuentes and Ross McCausland, prospects Josh Gentles, Paul Nsio, Jack Caldwell and loanee Ben Godfrey’s option all in focus.
Rangers have made no contact for Bologna’s Lewis Ferguson. With a 2028 deal and high fee expected, any move looks complex, while Bologna remain calm and open to significant offers.
Predicted Rangers XI v Dundee United: Pandur to start in goal, McCrorie likely at right-back, Souttar with Fernandez, Rommens at left-back, Barron-Chukwuani in midfield, Gassama wide, Shankland with Chermiti.
UEFA will not adopt FIFA’s red-card rule for players covering mouths. Ex-FIFA ref Keith Hackett is ‘delighted’. Rangers start Europa League in the third qualifying round, first leg on 6 August.
Ross McCausland, back from Aris Limassol loan, must fight for a place under McInnes. Bailey Rice’s new deal, despite injuries and interest, is cited as the model to earn an Ibrox future.
McInnes scraps Austria camp, taking Rangers to Spain next week. He assesses five new signings before Dundee United away on 31 July and Europa League third qualifying round, with a tight turnaround.
Rangers are eyeing Orgryte defender Michael Parker, 21, with Celtic and English clubs also keen. Orgryte want around £1.7m. Sporting director Pontus Farnerud confirms interest but says focus is on matches.
