Rangers to ‘expedite’ transfer after John Souttar injury at Ibrox
Russell Martin has a major headache at Rangers going into next season after John Souttar underwent surgery.
The Scotland international has been pivotal at the Gers over the years, but his consistent fitness issues have been frustrating for fans.
Souttar is a doubt to face Panathinaikos in the Champions League second qualifying round as he opted to delay an operation for a hernia issue to play for Scotland during the recent international fixtures.
Robin Propper could be on his way to FC Twente in the coming weeks after an underwhelming spell in Glasgow, giving the Light Blues an incentive to complete their transfer activity quickly.
Rangers to expedite transfer for defensive reinforcements after Souttar injury
Michael Gannon feels the Gers could potentially expedite defensive reinforcements this summer after Souttar was sidelined.
The Daily Record journalist believes the Light Blues realistically need two new centre-backs in the ongoing transfer window, and the process to identify and sign them will now be sped up at Ibrox.
| Appearances | Goals | Minutes played |
| 40 | 1 | 3411 |
Gannon speculates that Propper’s departure could possibly also be on the cards soon, leaving the Bears to complete their business sooner rather than later.
Speaking on Game On (20 June), the journalist said: “The reality was Rangers needed two centre-halves. You think Propper’s probably going as well. So I think they needed two centre-halves for the season anyway. [Souttar’s] slightly strange situation means they’re going to have to expedite that and bring both of them in quicker than they thought.”
Souttar replacement needed at Ibrox for Martin
Martin will undoubtedly rely on Souttar at the Gers if the Scottish defender is fit enough to start, but he isn’t a reliable option due to his injuries.
The 28-year-old has consistently struggled with fitness issues since signing for the Light Blues in 2022, and it wouldn’t make sense to count on his continued availability for next season.
While former Hearts defender is arguably the best centre-back the Bears have in their squad, he’s rarely fit, and that makes it imperative for the ex-Southampton boss to demand reinforcements.
Souttar’s contract situation at Rangers is also concerning, with the Scotsman entering the final year of his deal in G51.
If the Gers can’t agree on a new deal with the 28-year-old in the coming weeks, they should look to sell him in the final days of the transfer window.
The Light Blues have an evident lack of depth in their backline following Leon Balogun’s departure, and if Propper also leaves, significant investment will be required.
Dujon Sterling has done well as a central defender, but the Englishman has also spent most of his time in the treatment room recently.
It remains to be seen whether Martin will trust Clinton Nisala in the upcoming campaign, but new centre-backs are undoubtedly needed regardless.