Harry Darling makes decision as Rangers eye transfer swoop
Rangers are keen on securing the services of Swansea defender Harry Darling on a free transfer this summer.
Russell Martin has taken over the reins at Ibrox and he’s targeting defenders as he looks to rebuild the side.
Kevin Thelwell also began work at Rangers this week and will play a key role in bringing players to the club.
Swansea stay now unlikely for Harry Darling
According to the Daily Mail (6 June), Gers are weighing up a move for the 25-year-old centre-back.
He is currently being chased by a plethora of English sides, with his stay at Swansea looking unlikely.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Second Yellows | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 1 |
That’s because his contract is set to expire at the end of June and he has recently turned down a new deal.
This means that Gers can secure his services on a free, as Martin is understood to be keen on signing a player from one of his former clubs.
The new Rangers manager is understood to be a big fan of the English defender, having signed him twice in his career.
Martin can make Darling a success at Rangers
Martin can make Darling a success at Ibrox by leveraging his familiarity with the 25-year-old centre-back, having signed him at MK Dons and Swansea.
Darling’s ball-playing ability, with a 90% passing accuracy in the Championship, fits Martin’s possession-based, high-pressing 4-3-3 system, ideal for dominating Scottish Premiership low-block defences.
The Gers boss can position Darling as a key distributor in a back four, utilising his composure and range to initiate attacks.
His aerial strength and five goals last season add defensive solidity and set-piece threat.
Martin’s trust in Darling, combined with rigorous coaching, can refine his positioning, while regular starts alongside veterans like Conor Coady, who could join Rangers, ensure consistency, helping Rangers challenge Celtic.
Whether or not both defenders are eyed together or if it’s either/or, remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Martin wants players with experience in England.