NafisaWith preparations for the new Scottish Premiership season gathering pace, Rangers continue to reshape their squad under Derek McInnes as expectations around Ibrox begin to rise.
The club has already wasted little time in strengthening key areas, but there remains a clear understanding that further reinforcements will be required if the Light Blues are to mount a serious title challenge.
The early activity in the transfer market has already sent a strong message about the direction Rangers want to head. Rather than standing still after a disappointing campaign, those behind the scenes appear determined to provide McInnes with the tools needed to rebuild a squad capable of competing on every front.
Supporters have watched several new faces arrive while others have departed following the expiration of loans and contracts. That overhaul looks far from complete, however, with defensive additions still viewed as one of the club’s biggest priorities before the competitive action gets underway.
As Rangers continue assessing available opportunities across Europe, another experienced defender has now emerged as a serious target, with talks reportedly advancing behind the scenes.
According to a report from the Daily Record, Rangers are closing in on a loan agreement for Atalanta defender Ben Godfrey.
The English centre-back completed an £11 million move from Everton to the Serie A club in 2024 but has struggled to establish himself in Italy, featuring in only five matches before spending time out on loan with Ipswich Town, Sheffield United and Danish outfit Brondby.
Following his temporary switch to Brondby in January, the 28-year-old went on to make 11 appearances in the Danish Superliga. With that loan spell now complete, he still has two years remaining on his contract with Atalanta.
The report claims another temporary departure is now expected, with Ibrox looking increasingly likely to become his next destination.
Godfrey has previously been linked with Rangers, but it is understood that McInnes has personally identified the versatile defender as one of his priority targets and is confident a deal can be completed.
Strengthening the defensive department has become increasingly important for Rangers after several players moved on this summer.
Loan deals for Max Aarons, Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius have all come to an end, while long-serving captain James Tavernier also departed after the expiration of his contract.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Fernandez continues to attract significant interest from a number of clubs, creating further uncertainty over Rangers’ defensive options heading into the new campaign.
McInnes has already welcomed Ross McCrorie from Bristol City as his first signing since taking charge, while Lawrence Shankland had completed his move to Ibrox shortly before the manager’s appointment.
Godfrey would add valuable experience to the back line if the proposed move is finalised.
His career has taken an unusual route over the past decade. After impressing with York City in League Two, he earned a move to Norwich City where he established himself as one of the Championship’s standout young defenders.
His performances convinced Everton to invest what was widely reported to be an initial £20 million to secure his services.
Godfrey became a regular starter during his early years at Goodison Park before gradually slipping down the pecking order, eventually leading to his transfer to Atalanta.
Although his spell in Italy has not gone according to plan, Rangers could now provide the defender with the opportunity to reignite his career under a manager eager to strengthen his defensive unit before the new season begins.
Nafisa
