Alexander Smith seals out-of-window Rangers loan exit, approval pending for instant debut
Alexander Smith has departed Rangers on loan for Scottish League Two side Dumbarton.
Smith, a youth international for Scotland and the United States, was part of Rangers‘ senior squad for last month’s Europa League clash against Porto.
The 17-year-old creative midfielder has yet to make his senior bow for the Gers and will now get the chance to gain some regular minutes elsewhere.
Smith will remain at Marbill Coaches Stadium until the end of the 2025-26 campaign.
Dumbarton see off competition for Alexander Smith loan signing
Confirming the news via their official website on Saturday, Dumbarton announced that they had seen off competition teams as high up as the Scottish Championship for Smith’s signature.
It was also announced that Smith could make his debut as early as Saturday against Stirling Albion if granted approval by the Scottish Football Association.
And Dumbarton manager Frank McKeown is delighted to have brought in Smith for the remainder of the season.
“We’ve been looking to add to our attacking options and Alexander gives us a new dimension in attack,” he said.
“He’s someone with a very strong pedigree and is the sort of player who is always looking to create chances. We’re excited to see him in action – and I’m sure that our fans will enjoy what he can bring to our side.
“I’m grateful to Rangers for their support in getting the deal over the line, and we’re looking forward to working with Alexander.”
Dumbarton are currently ninth in the 10-team Scottish League Two, two points above bottom side Edinburgh City.
The Sons also announced the arrival of Celtic youngster Aidan Rice on Saturday in a double transfer boost.
Everything we know about Rangers talent Smith
Smith signed his first professional contract at Ibrox in the summer of 2014, despite reported interest from Arsenal and teams in MLS at the time.
The teenager has represented both Scotland and USA at age-grade level, although he will likely soon have to make a decision on which he will represent going forward.
The fact Danny Rohl has already included Smith in a senior squad this season, albeit in a dead rubber against Porto, shows he is clearly very highly thought of at Rangers.
Playing as low as the fourth tier of Scottish Football may seem a strange call on the face of it, but nothing beats regular football – regardless of the level.
The hope is that Smith comes back to Ibrox a better player and can perhaps force his way into Rohl’s plans for pre-season.
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