Credit: Imago

Jacob Raw

Sat 23 May 2026 13:10, UK

Rangers have been trying to tie Bailey Rice down to a new long-term contract, but they are just wasting their time at this point.

There has been speculation about the 19-year-old for months, with many suggestions saying that he was set to leave Ibrox this month.

He came through the ranks at Auchenhowie, playing 12 times last season, impressing fans and internal figures at Ibrox.

The teenager is rated very highly in Glasgow and has been tipped to become a key cog of the Light Blues’ midfield in the years to come.

However, Rangers are still in contact with Rice over his contract, as it seems the 49ers are fighting a constant uphill battle to keep him.

Bailey Rice should have no doubt in his mind

Rice is assessing his options amid talks with Gers over a fresh deal, as multiple clubs remain interested in the defensive midfielder.

It’s been a difficult campaign for the youngster, making just one appearance against Alloa Athletic back at the start of the season, before suffering a bad training ground injury in November.

Danny Rohl seems to be keen to keep Rice at Ibrox, with his contract expiring this summer, though the player himself seems undecided about what is best for his career.

There is European interest in the midfield gem, with the likes of Bundesliga side Schalke and Dutch giants Ajax monitoring his progress.

Given the time it’s taken to wrap things up, it does look like he wants to leave.

But if he were to join either of those sides, it would be interesting to see what his decision behind them potential moves would be.

He’s been told that he can become a key layer for Rangers, but would most likely struggle for game time at Ajax or Schalke.

Who else could Rangers promote if Rice leaves?

Luckily enough for Rangers, even if Rice were to leave, they have ready-made replacements to come through at Auchenhowie.

Aiden Crilly played an important part in Rangers U21s’ CAS Elite winning season this term, a key midfield cog.

Displaying great technique, tenacity, and creativity from deep midfield positions, the 17-year-old is sure to burst onto the scene very soon.

Aiden McCallion is another 17-year-old gem who has played a successful role next to Crilly for the U19s this season.

Unlike Crilly, McCallion has made his professional debut for Gers, playing 10 minutes in the 5-2 win against Falkirk, and seems like a player Rohl could use more going forward.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.