NafisaThe summer transfer window rarely unfolds without a few twists, and Rangers have already experienced that first-hand as they continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Derek McInnes has made strengthening the defensive department one of his top priorities, with the Ibrox club exploring several promising options from across Europe.
Supporters have watched a number of names emerge over recent weeks, particularly younger defenders with the potential to develop into long-term assets.
While several deals remain under discussion, the transfer market has once again demonstrated just how quickly circumstances can change when multiple clubs enter the race.
McInnes has already added fresh faces to his squad this summer, but the search for further reinforcements at the back has continued following the departures of several defenders at the end of last season. Rangers have been eager to secure players capable of fitting both the manager’s style and the club’s long-term ambitions.
One player who had attracted serious attention from the Scottish giants was Swedish centre-back Zinedin Smajlovic. The highly-rated defender had emerged as one of Rangers’ priority defensive targets after impressing with Norwegian side Sandefjord.
Last month, reports indicated that Rangers had contacted Sandefjord to enquire about Smajlovic, who had also become the subject of interest from Celtic.
Italian journalist Rudy Galetti previously reported that Celtic submitted an offer worth £3.8million, with a further £1.7million in potential add-ons, for the 22-year-old Sweden youth international.
However, despite the Old Firm interest, both Glasgow clubs have now missed out after another European side moved decisively to secure the defender’s signature.
According to Swedish outlet Expressen, Olympiacos have now reached a full agreement with Sandefjord to complete the transfer of Smajlovic.
The Greek champions will reportedly pay around £4.2million upfront, with the overall package potentially rising to approximately £5.1million through performance-related bonuses.
The report adds that the deal represents a record-breaking transfer for Sandefjord, with the Swedish defender expected to travel immediately to join Olympiacos’ pre-season preparations before completing the formal signing process.
Smajlovic has featured 10 times for Sandefjord during the 2026 Norwegian Eliteserien campaign, producing performances that attracted growing attention from clubs around Europe.
His commanding displays eventually sparked a bidding battle, but it is Olympiacos who have successfully won the race for one of Scandinavia’s brightest young defensive prospects.
Although Rangers will naturally be disappointed to lose out on a player they had closely monitored, McInnes’ recruitment plans remain far from complete.
The Light Blues have already strengthened their defensive options this summer with the arrivals of Ross McCrorie and Ben Godfrey, yet the club continue searching for another centre-back capable of adding further quality and depth.
Reports have continued linking Rangers with Excelsior Rotterdam defender Casper Widell, while Troyes youngster Sankhoun Diawara also remains firmly on the club’s shortlist.
McInnes appears determined to continue targeting young defenders with high ceilings, even after missing out on Smajlovic.
As Rangers prepare for another crucial Premiership campaign, defensive recruitment remains one of the club’s biggest priorities, and supporters can expect further movement before the transfer window closes.
Nafisa
