Rangers have re‑opened talks for AEK Athens left‑back James Penrice, hoping to secure the 27‑year‑old before rivals Middlesbrough and Blackburn make a move. The Scottish giants see Penrice as the final piece for a squad that sits second in the Premiership with 69 points after a 2‑5 win over Falkirk on 16 May.

Why is Penrice back on Rangers’ radar?

Penrice featured in AEK’s title‑winning campaign last season, logging 33 appearances across all competitions. Despite solid performances, he was largely a squad player, starting just 16 league games. That limited role, combined with his desire to return to the UK, has reignited interest from Ibrox. He originally attracted Rangers in January, but a deal fell through. Now, with the club already having added Ivan Pandur, Ross McCrorie, Dan Neil and Lawrence Shankland, the left‑back could complete a summer overhaul.

How strong is the competition?

Both Middlesbrough and Blackburn have formally inquired about Penrice’s availability, according to senior correspondent Ben Jacobs. Neither Championship side has yet approached AEK, which could give Rangers a timing edge. The defender’s Scottish nationality may also sway him toward a move north, especially if Rangers demonstrate genuine intent. Should the Glasgow club act quickly, they could out‑maneuver the English rivals and lock in a player who fits their attacking full‑back profile.

What does the signing mean for McInnes’ project?

Derek McInnes arrived at Ibrox with a clear mandate: end Celtic’s dominance and bring a league title back to Rangers. The club’s recent form – a recent 2‑5 thrashing of Falkirk and a 2‑0‑3 run in the last five games – shows they are still finding consistency. Adding Penrice would give McInnes a reliable option on the left, complementing the newly signed Ross McCrorie and bolstering a defence that has conceded 31 goals this season. With a goal difference of +35, the side needs stability at the back to convert its 66 goals scored into more points.

When could the deal be finalised?

If negotiations progress, Penrice could join before the next home fixture against Saint Etienne on 22 July. That would give him a short pre‑season to settle in before the title race, where Rangers sit just one point behind leaders Heart of Midlothian. A swift signing would also free up resources for McInnes to target midfield reinforcements such as Vanja Dragojevic or Jens Hjerto‑Dahl, keeping the squad competitive on all fronts.

Rangers’ transfer window is far from over, and Penrice remains a key target. The club’s ability to outbid English rivals could shape the balance of power in the Scottish Premiership for another season.