NafisaRangers supporters have been eagerly watching every move made at Ibrox this summer as Derek McInnes begins reshaping the squad ahead of the new Premiership campaign.
After several key departures and a season that fell below expectations, there has been a clear desire among fans to see proven quality added in multiple positions.
The early stages of the transfer window have reflected that ambition. Recruitment has focused on bringing in players who combine experience with versatility, while also ensuring the squad has greater depth to cope with the demands of domestic and European football.
Strengthening the defensive unit had become one of the club’s biggest priorities. With several loan players returning to their parent clubs and changes across the back line, Rangers needed reinforcements capable of making an immediate impact rather than long-term projects.
That search has now produced another important addition.
Rangers have officially finalised the signing of former Everton and Sheffield United defender Ben Godfrey on a season-long loan agreement.
The Light Blues also hold an option to complete a permanent transfer from Serie A outfit Atalanta next summer if the move proves successful.
Godfrey becomes Rangers’ third acquisition of the summer following the arrivals of striker Lawrence Shankland and versatile defender Ross McCrorie.
The experienced defender first emerged through the ranks at York City before earning a move to Norwich City, where his impressive displays helped establish him as one of England’s promising young centre-backs.
Those performances secured a high-profile switch to Everton, where he accumulated well over 100 Premier League appearances during four seasons on Merseyside before completing a move to Italian side Atalanta.
Last season saw the 28-year-old spend time away from Bergamo on temporary spells with Sheffield United and Danish club Brondby, where he enjoyed his most consistent run of football in recent years.
Now he arrives at Ibrox hoping to strengthen McInnes’ defensive options heading into the new campaign.
Speaking after completing the move, Godfrey expressed his excitement about joining the Glasgow giants.
“I am buzzing, I am really happy to be here. I know the size of the club so it is a massive honour to be wearing the shirt this season, and I can’t wait to get started.
“I am looking forward to meeting the boys and hopefully helping this club achieve what it deserves, which is silverware and exciting times.”
McInnes also explained why Rangers were so eager to secure the defender’s services.
“Ben is a player who has competed at a very high level throughout his career. He’s played in the Premier League, been involved with England, and brings a lot of experience with him.
“He’s a strong, athletic defender with good qualities both on and off the ball, and we believe he can add a lot to the squad. We’re pleased to get him in, and I’m looking forward to working with him in the season ahead.”
Rangers also confirmed the deal through an official statement.
“Rangers can today announce the signing of Ben Godfrey on a season-long loan from Atalanta, subject to international clearance.
“The 28-year-old joins ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with an option to make the deal permanent next summer. An experienced defender who has been capped at senior level for England, Godfrey started his career with his hometown club York City.
“Moving on to Norwich Academy, he became a first-team regular for the Canaries in the 2018/19 season playing a key role in their promotion to the English Premier League. In the summer of 2020, Godfrey signed for Everton, making his debut in a 2-2 draw in the Merseyside derby. With over 100 Premier League appearances under his belt during his time in England, he made the move to Serie A in Italy, joining Atalanta in 2024. Godfrey spent the second half of last season on loan to Danish Superliga side Brondby.”
Atalanta also confirmed the temporary transfer.
“Atalanta BC announce that defender Benjamin Godfrey has joined Rangers Football Club on loan until 30 June 2027, with an option to make the move permanent. The club wishes Benjamin all the very best for this new chapter of his career in Scotland.”
For Rangers, the arrival represents another significant step in McInnes’ rebuilding process. The manager now adds a defender with Premier League pedigree, international experience and the versatility to operate across the back line, giving the squad additional quality and competition ahead of what promises to be another demanding season.
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