NafisaAs Rangers continue reshaping their squad under new manager Derek McInnes, much of the discussion has naturally centred around high-profile arrivals and the fresh direction being mapped out at Ibrox.
The club has already moved decisively in the early stages of the summer window, demonstrating a willingness to address key areas of the squad before pre-season preparations gather pace.
Supporters have been encouraged by the activity so far, particularly after a campaign that once again fell short of expectations.
There is also a growing sense that Rangers are targeting players who understand the demands of Scottish football rather than relying solely on overseas recruitment. That shift in strategy could prove significant as the club looks to close the gap on its rivals and mount a stronger challenge for silverware next season.
Experience, versatility and familiarity with the domestic game appear to be major factors in recruitment decisions this summer. With Derek McInnes now officially at the helm, it is becoming increasingly clear that he wants players capable of making an immediate impact rather than requiring lengthy adaptation periods.
One player who fits that profile perfectly appears to be moving closer and closer to a return to Glasgow.
Ross McCrorie closing in on Rangers comeback
Ross McCrorie is moving ever nearer to becoming Rangers’ second signing of the summer transfer window.
The defender left Ibrox on a permanent switch to Aberdeen in 2021 after struggling to cement a consistent starting role within the first team.
Two years later, McCrorie made the move south to Bristol City, where he has established himself as one of the club’s most dependable performers in the Championship.
Now, with long-serving skipper James Tavernier leaving Rangers, the opportunity to return to his boyhood side has emerged at precisely the right time.
McCrorie already enjoys a strong relationship with Derek McInnes, having previously worked under the Rangers boss during their time together at Aberdeen.
That connection appears to have played a major role in accelerating negotiations.
Length of Rangers contract revealed
McCrorie is poised to return to Ibrox carrying far more experience than when he originally departed.
At 28 years old, the Scotland international is entering what many would regard as the prime years of his career.
His ability to operate in several positions remains one of his biggest strengths, although he is expected to challenge Dujon Sterling primarily for the right-back position.
According to Rangers Review, McCrorie is set to sign a three-year contract with Rangers.
The agreement would keep him at Ibrox until the summer of 2029, highlighting the club’s belief that they are acquiring a player capable of contributing immediately and consistently over the coming seasons.
The same report claims Bristol City will receive an initial transfer fee believed to be around £900,000.
Additional clauses included within the deal could see the final figure rise further through performance-related bonuses.
For Rangers, it represents a relatively modest investment for a player with proven experience in both the Scottish Premiership and the Championship.
Why McInnes values McCrorie so highly
The expected signing also aligns closely with the profile of player Rangers appear determined to recruit this summer.
Lawrence Shankland has already swapped Hearts for Ibrox, and McCrorie would bring another wealth of Scottish football experience to the squad.
McInnes has never hidden his admiration for the versatile defender.
Speaking previously about McCrorie, the Rangers manager said:
“I just love the boy. I think he’s a dream on and off the pitch.
“His athleticism gets him out of trouble, his brain gets him out of trouble, gets him into positions. Having Ross’s power and intelligence in there allows us to play with one or two more attacking players.”
Those comments offer a clear insight into why McInnes has been so eager to reunite with the player.
The manager values not only McCrorie’s physical attributes but also his tactical awareness and professionalism.
More than just a replacement
While some supporters may not initially view McCrorie’s arrival as a blockbuster transfer, there is plenty of logic behind the move.
Rangers have often been criticised in recent years for lacking enough players who truly understand the intensity and expectations associated with Scottish football.
McCrorie brings precisely that.
He knows the league, understands the pressure of representing Rangers, and arrives with several seasons of valuable experience gained elsewhere.
Those qualities could make him one of the more important additions of the summer, particularly as Rangers seek to build a squad capable of delivering immediate improvement under McInnes.
With personal terms reportedly agreed, a transfer fee effectively settled and all parties seemingly aligned, the return of Ross McCrorie now appears to be only a matter of time.
Nafisa
