As the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership title race reaches its fever pitch, Rangers find themselves at a historic turning point. While manager Danny Rohl targets a first league trophy in five years, the squad that takes the field next season could look radically different.
The stakes are immense: a title win secures a path to the Champions League, while a slip to third place could trigger a financial and talent exodus to the Europa Conference League. Here are the five players most likely to be part of the summer upheaval at Ibrox.
1. James Tavernier: The End of an Era
The most significant departure is already set in stone. Captain James Tavernier will end his legendary 11-year stint in Glasgow when his contract expires this June. Joining in 2015 while the club was still in the Championship, the 34-year-old right-back has defied traditional positional logic, netting a staggering 142 goals in over 500 appearances. Replacing his leadership and set-piece prowess will be Rohl’s most daunting task.
2. Emmanuel Fernandez: The Record-Breaker?
Perhaps the biggest success story of the current campaign is Emmanuel Fernandez. Since arriving from Peterborough last summer, the 24-year-old Nigerian international has evolved into one of Europe’s most coveted defenders. With heavyweights like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Borussia Dortmund circling, Rangers are reportedly holding out for a club-record fee exceeding €25 million. If he leaves, it will be for a massive profit, but it leaves a gaping hole in the backline.
3. Nicolas Raskin: The Midfield Engine
Nicolas Raskin has been the heartbeat of the Rangers midfield, clocking more minutes than any other outfield player this season. However, his rise to stardom—coupled with an expected appearance for Belgium at the 2026 World Cup—has made him a prime target for elite European clubs. With two years left on his deal, Rangers may feel compelled to cash in on a €20 million+ offer if they fail to secure the financial windfall of Champions League football.
4. Youssef Chermiti: From Struggle to Star
It took time for Youssef Chermiti to find his feet following an €8.6m move from Everton, but the 21-year-old has caught fire at the perfect time. With 10 goals in his last 18 matches, including a memorable brace against Celtic, the Portuguese striker is now on the radar of clubs like PSV Eindhoven. While his form is finally peaking, Rangers might consider a high-value sale to fund a wider squad rebuild.
5. Bailey Rice: A Quiet Departure
In a more somber development, teenage prospect Bailey Rice appears headed for the exit on a free transfer. Once considered the crown jewel of the Rangers academy, Rice’s season has been decimated by injury, leaving him without a single appearance this term. Despite his lack of game time, European giants Ajax and Schalke remain keen on his potential, signaling a disappointing end to a promising Ibrox career.
The Bottom Line
The upcoming transfer window represents more than just standard recruitment for Rangers; it is a total recalibration. Between the loss of a club icon like Tavernier and the potential record-breaking sale of Fernandez, the Rangers squad of August 2026 will likely be a new-look side built entirely in Danny Rohl’s image.
How many of these stars do you think Rangers should fight to keep if they secure Champions League football?
