Rangers ‘to follow Max Aarons signing’ with double defender transfer at Ibrox
Max Aarons is likely the first of many through the door at Rangers this summer.
Russell Martin took the reins at Ibrox on 5 June and needs significant upgrades to his squad if they are to improve on a dismal campaign last time out.
The Bournemouth defender has joined on a season-long loan deal with no obligation to buy and is expected to challenge James Tavernier for a starting berth.
However, that deal alone will not sort out the Gers’ defensive problems, but Martin and Co may be about to address that.
Rangers set for double defender swoop
The 49ers and Andrew Cavenagh, the Govan outfit’s new majority owners, are set to back Martin heavily this summer.
A report from Rangers Review (26 June) claims that Gers have identified Peterborough star Emmanuel Fernandez as a potential signing at centre-back.
It states that the move for Conor Coady is also still expected to happen as the Light Blues focus on the domestic market.
Martin needs significant additions at Rangers
If the Bears are to challenge arch-rivals Celtic for the Scottish Premiership title, they need to improve in all areas of the squad.
That may be a huge challenge, as they could lose the likes of Hamza Igamane, Cyriel Dessers and Nico Raskin amid significant interest from clubs across Europe.
However, bringing in those two defenders after securing Aarons on loan would be a solid start to business ahead of the new season, especially Coady, as he has significant experience in the Premier League.
The Gers allowed Leon Balogun to depart at the end of his contract and look set to lose Robin Propper, with FC Twente interested in bringing him back to the Netherlands after a miserable stint in Scottish football.
Barry Ferguson was forced to utilise Clinton Nsiala and Dujon Sterling at centre-back last season, so reinforcements in that area will be a welcome bonus.
There is still a lot of work to do, but it is an encouraging sign that the new ownership and sporting structure are moving quickly to secure what the Auchenhowie outfit is lacking.
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