NafisaRangers’ summer rebuild under Derek McInnes continues to gather pace, with the new manager showing he is prepared to make some difficult decisions as he reshapes the squad ahead of the new season.
Several new arrivals have already strengthened the squad, but attention is now turning to the players who no longer fit into the Ibrox boss’ long-term plans.
The Light Blues have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market, adding Lawrence Shankland, Ben Godfrey, Cammy Devlin, Ross McCrorie, Dan Neil and Ivor Pandur since McInnes replaced Danny Röhl following the latter’s move to RB Salzburg. However, while new faces continue to arrive, departures are expected to accelerate over the coming weeks.
One experienced Scotland international now appears to have reached the end of the road at Ibrox after fresh reports revealed McInnes has already made a firm decision over his future.
John Souttar heading for Ibrox exit
According to Football Insider, Derek McInnes has informed John Souttar that he does not feature in his plans for the upcoming season, with Rangers now actively looking to move the defender on before the transfer window closes.
The 29-year-old, who was once described as “unbelievable” by Scotland captain Andy Robertson, represented his country at the 2026 World Cup before returning early to Auchenhowie in an effort to impress the new manager ahead of pre-season.
Despite those efforts, Souttar has reportedly been left behind as Rangers travelled to Spain for their pre-season training camp, a clear indication that his future lies away from Ibrox.
The decision is particularly surprising given that the defender only signed a contract extension in February, committing his future to Rangers until the summer of 2027.
However, Football Insider reports that Rangers are now working behind the scenes to secure his departure, with several Championship clubs in England already expressing interest in the Scotland international.
The Ibrox hierarchy are understood to accept they are unlikely to receive a significant transfer fee, meaning their priority is to complete a move quickly and avoid uncertainty dragging into the new season.
McInnes has already strengthened the heart of his defence by signing Ben Godfrey, who is expected to partner Emmanuel Fernandez, but the report claims Rangers are still searching for another central defender.
A naturally left-footed centre-back is said to be the preferred profile as the club looks to improve both balance and depth within the defensive unit, although no move is currently close to completion.
McInnes making big calls
Since arriving at Ibrox, McInnes has wasted little time stamping his authority on the squad.
The departures of established figures such as James Tavernier before his appointment, along with the reported exits of Jack Butland and now John Souttar, underline the scale of the changes taking place under the new manager.
Rather than relying on previous reputations or experience, McInnes appears determined to build a squad that fits his tactical vision and long-term plans.
The Rangers board have backed the former Aberdeen boss in the transfer market, allowing him to reshape the squad with a mixture of experienced additions and younger talent.
If Souttar does complete his expected departure, Rangers will lose a defender with extensive Scottish Premiership experience and international pedigree.
Nevertheless, the club believe refreshing the squad is essential as McInnes looks to build a side capable of challenging on all fronts.
With recruitment continuing and further departures expected before the end of the transfer window, Rangers’ summer overhaul is showing no signs of slowing down as the new manager continues moulding the squad in his own image.
Nafisa
