Rangers have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the summer transfer window, with reports confirming that academy standout Bailey Rice has officially rejected a new contract offer at Ibrox. The 18-year-old midfielder is now set to become a free agent, sparking a frantic scramble among some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs for his signature.
Despite Rangers’ efforts to secure his long-term future, the allure of continental football and a fresh start appears to have swayed the teenager. Rice, who has long been regarded as one of the brightest talents in the Scottish youth system, is reportedly “open to leaving” after a frustrating campaign hampered by timing and circumstance.
A Halted Progression
The 2025-26 season was expected to be a breakout year for Rice. However, a “big, big injury” at a crucial juncture forced the midfielder into a lengthy rehabilitation period. During his absence, managerial changes at the club further complicated his path to the first team.
Under Danny Rohl, Rice has struggled to reclaim his spot in the senior setup, often finding himself limited to reserve team action. Rohl recently commented on the situation, emphasizing that the player’s priority was returning to full fitness before a final decision on his role could be made. It appears that decision has now been taken by the player himself.
The Race for Rice: Ajax and Schalke Lead the Charge
The news of Rice’s availability on a free transfer has alerted major clubs across Europe. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, German outfit Schalke have already submitted a formal offer to the midfielder.
Perhaps more daunting for Rangers is the reported interest from Ajax. The Dutch giants are world-renowned for their ability to develop young talent, and the prospect of joining their ranks is a difficult one for any teenager to turn down. Rice’s potential departure follows a worrying trend for Scottish football, which has seen young stars like Ben Doak leave for larger stages in the Premier League and beyond.
Focus Shifts to the Title Race
While the loss of Rice is a “major blow” to the club’s long-term vision, the immediate priority at Ibrox remains the Scottish Premiership title. Rangers currently sit just one point behind leaders Hearts with only five games remaining in a historic and unpredictable season.
Captain James Tavernier has called for perfection in the final run-in, noting that five wins from their remaining fixtures—which include a vital clash against Celtic—is the only way to ensure silverware returns to the blue side of Glasgow.
”We’ve just got to get five wins and hopefully that takes us where we want to be,” Tavernier stated. “We can’t really focus on anyone else.”
