NafisaRangers’ summer clear-out looks set to continue as Derek McInnes moves closer to offloading another high-profile member of his squad before the new season gets underway.
With the Ibrox boss reshaping his attacking options following a busy transfer window, one of the club’s most expensive recent signings now appears destined for another spell away from Glasgow.
The Brazilian forward has struggled to establish himself since arriving at Rangers and, after falling further down the pecking order, an exit has become increasingly inevitable. Now, fresh reports suggest a deal is edging ever closer.
Danilo closing in on Botafogo switch
According to Sky Sports News, Rangers striker Danilo is close to completing a loan move to Brazilian side Botafogo.
The two clubs are currently finalising discussions over a deal that would initially see the 27-year-old join on loan, with Botafogo holding an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.
The report adds that the purchase clause will become active based on the number of appearances Danilo makes during his time in Brazil.
Further fuelling speculation over his departure, Danilo was left out of Rangers’ squad for their pre-season training camp in Spain, reinforcing suggestions that he no longer features prominently in Derek McInnes’ plans.
The Brazilian arrived at Ibrox from Feyenoord in a deal worth around £6 million in 2023, but injuries and inconsistent form prevented him from becoming the prolific striker Rangers had hoped for.
Across two seasons in Glasgow, Danilo made 62 appearances, scoring 15 goals, but was unable to nail down a regular starting place.
Competition leaves Danilo surplus to requirements
Danilo’s route back into the Rangers starting XI has become increasingly difficult following McInnes’ summer recruitment.
The Brazilian already found himself behind Youssef Chermiti and Bojan Miovski in the striking pecking order last season, while Rangers have since strengthened their attacking options further with the arrivals of Ryan Naderi and Lawrence Shankland.
With competition for places intensifying, a temporary move now appears to suit both player and club.
This would also be Danilo’s second consecutive loan spell after spending the latter part of last season with Dutch side NEC.
However, his return to the Eredivisie failed to reignite his career, with the striker scoring just one goal in 12 appearances, leading NEC to pass up the opportunity to make the move permanent.
Fresh opportunity in Brazil
A return to his homeland could provide Danilo with the fresh start he has been searching for.
Earlier this year, the striker admitted it would be an “honour” to one day represent his boyhood club Corinthians, although it is Botafogo who now appear set to offer him the chance to rebuild his career in Brazilian football.
Despite the likely move, Rangers are not completely severing ties with the forward.
Danilo remains under contract at Ibrox until 2028, meaning a successful spell with Botafogo could either trigger a permanent transfer or revive his prospects of returning to Glasgow in the future.
For now, though, all signs point towards another departure as McInnes continues reshaping his Rangers squad ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, with Danilo expected to complete his move once the final details of the loan agreement are concluded.
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