NafisaRangers have strengthened their squad once again as preparations for the new campaign continue, with supporters eager to see how Derek McInnes reshapes the team after arriving at Ibrox.
The club has wasted little time in the transfer market, making it clear that fresh competition and added depth across the squad remain a major priority ahead of another demanding season.
The early weeks of the summer window have already brought plenty of activity. New faces have started arriving, experienced figures have departed, and the focus has remained firmly on building a group capable of challenging on multiple fronts.
With expectations always sky-high in Glasgow, every addition is being closely analysed by fans hoping this squad can deliver silverware.
McInnes has repeatedly spoken about bringing in players who possess the right mentality alongside proven quality. Rangers have been determined to recruit footballers with top-level experience who can settle quickly and make an immediate impact rather than requiring a lengthy adaptation period.
That strategy has now produced another significant arrival, with the Light Blues officially confirming the signing of experienced defender Ben Godfrey from Atalanta on a season-long loan, including an option to make the move permanent.
The 28-year-old centre-back joined the Italian club in 2024 after leaving Everton, having previously established himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising defenders during spells with Norwich City and the Merseyside outfit.
Godfrey first rose through the ranks with Norwich before earning a move to Goodison Park in a transfer reportedly worth around £25 million in 2020. During his time in England’s top flight, he featured in well over 100 Premier League matches and also earned two senior England caps.
In recent seasons, the defender has spent time out on loan with Ipswich Town, Sheffield United and Danish club Brondby. His spell in Denmark proved particularly productive, providing him with his longest consistent run of first-team football over the past couple of campaigns.
Reports earlier this weekend revealed that Godfrey had successfully completed his medical examinations at Ibrox before finalising the transfer, paving the way for Rangers to officially unveil him as another addition to McInnes’ growing squad.
Although Rangers are expected to rely less heavily on loan signings than they did last season, when several temporary arrivals joined the club, the recruitment team continues to view the loan market as an excellent opportunity to secure players with significant quality and experience.
Club chairman Andrew Cavenagh explained the club’s thinking regarding temporary deals at the conclusion of last season.
“We will always have loan players because there is good value. Whether the sporting value or future flexibility.”
Godfrey’s arrival also addresses an important need within the defensive department. Following the departures of Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius after their loan spells expired, Rangers were left with John Souttar and Manny Fernandez as their only senior central defensive options.
The new signing joins a growing list of arrivals this summer. Ross McCrorie has already returned to Ibrox to provide competition at right-back alongside Dujon Sterling, while striker Lawrence Shankland also completed his move from Hearts earlier in the transfer window.
Speaking after completing the switch, Godfrey admitted he is excited to begin this new chapter in his career.
“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 expressed his delight after securing the defender’s signature, highlighting the experience and qualities Godfrey will add to the squad.
“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.”
With another experienced player now through the door, Rangers continue to show clear intent in the transfer market as McInnes shapes the squad for the challenges ahead.
Godfrey’s arrival provides added depth, versatility and valuable top-level experience, while the option to buy also gives the club flexibility should the defender impress throughout the campaign. Supporters will now be eager to see whether this latest piece of business is followed by even more additions before the transfer window closes.
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