NafisaRangers are entering what could be one of their most important summers in recent memory, with significant decisions being made both on and off the pitch as preparations continue for the new campaign.
After another frustrating season that ended without the Scottish Premiership title returning to Ibrox, attention has already turned towards rebuilding the squad and ensuring the club are better equipped to compete on multiple fronts next year.
Supporters have spent weeks discussing potential arrivals, departures and tactical changes, but one thing has become increasingly clear: Rangers are searching for more than just talent.
There is a growing belief that character, leadership and familiarity with Scottish football could be just as valuable as technical quality when it comes to closing the gap on their rivals.
That approach has already been reflected in some of the names linked with the club in recent weeks, and more developments could soon follow.
One player whose future remains uncertain is Hearts midfielder Cammy Devlin.
The Australian international sees his current contract expire this summer after playing a major role in Hearts’ remarkable title challenge, which ultimately fell just short.
With several offers reportedly on the table, Devlin now faces a crucial decision regarding the next stage of his career.
At 28 years old, the midfielder is entering what many would consider the peak years of his playing life, making his next move particularly important.
Despite suffering an ankle injury midway through the season, Devlin still featured 28 times in league competition and remained a key figure whenever available for selection.
Recent events, however, may have shifted the landscape significantly in Rangers’ favour.
What has been said about Derek McInnes and Rangers?
While transfer planning had already been progressing behind the scenes, Rangers were forced to reassess certain aspects of their summer strategy following developments involving manager Danny Rohl.
The German coach has been heavily linked with Austrian giants RB Salzburg, with reports suggesting his departure is now all but complete.
As a consequence, Hearts manager Derek McInnes has emerged as the overwhelming favourite to replace him at Ibrox.
Although Rangers were also linked with former title-winning boss Steven Gerrard, reports indicate that McInnes has been the only candidate directly involved in discussions with the club.
That development could have implications beyond the dugout.
Devlin could follow familiar path to Ibrox
Devlin was previously linked with Rangers earlier this year, although interest never developed into anything concrete at the time.
Now, however, circumstances appear very different.
With uncertainty surrounding his future at Hearts and McInnes potentially heading for Glasgow, Rangers may find themselves in a stronger position to persuade the midfielder to make the switch.
The situation bears similarities to that of Lawrence Shankland, who recently agreed a move to Rangers after allowing his Hearts contract to run down.
Should McInnes arrive, the possibility of Devlin following him north could become increasingly realistic.
Danny Rohl departure may unexpectedly benefit Rangers
At first glance, the prospect of losing Danny Rohl is far from ideal.
Pre-season preparations are approaching rapidly, and much of the club’s planning had naturally revolved around the current manager remaining in place.
Yet there is also an argument that the situation could create opportunities.
In Shankland, and potentially McInnes and Devlin, Rangers could add individuals who possess extensive knowledge of Scottish football and understand exactly what it takes to succeed in the domestic game.
That familiarity could prove invaluable.
For all the quality Rangers displayed in patches last season, their title challenge ultimately collapsed when pressure intensified during the closing weeks of the campaign.
A run of four consecutive defeats effectively ended their hopes and highlighted the need for greater resilience throughout the squad.
Scottish experience could be key
One lesson Rangers appear determined to learn is the importance of recruiting players who already understand the demands of the Premiership.
The league presents unique challenges, and adapting quickly is not always straightforward for newcomers arriving from abroad.
Devlin has already demonstrated his ability to thrive in Scotland, while McInnes has spent years building competitive sides capable of consistently punching above their weight.
If Rangers are serious about assembling a squad capable of mounting a sustained title challenge, adding figures who understand the landscape may be every bit as important as signing marquee names.
And with the managerial picture seemingly moving towards a conclusion, the coming weeks could determine whether Cammy Devlin becomes the next player to make the journey from Hearts to Ibrox.
Nafisa
