Rangers have completed a major squad overhaul by signing 14 players during the Scottish Premiership summer transfer window. The club spent significant sums, including a £9.2 million Deadline Day deal for striker Kevin Kelsy from Portland Timbers, according to a report from Sky Sports published on Thursday 3 September.
Derek McInnes's side currently sit sixth in the Premiership with seven points from four games, having scored five goals and conceded four. They are five points behind leaders Celtic ahead of their next fixture away to Kilmarnock on 26 December. The squad is dealing with injuries to José Cifuentes, Tuur Rommens, and Youssef Chermiti.
Who did Rangers sign this summer?
Rangers were active throughout the window, bringing in players for every position. The most expensive arrival was Kevin Kelsy, secured for £9.2 million on the final day. The club also paid £6 million for goalkeeper Ivor Pandur and £8.5 million for defender Minsu Kim from Girona. Further additions included Olewthu Makhanya, Daisuke Yokota, and Vanja Dragojevic for a combined fee of around £10 million.
On Deadline Day, Rangers also completed a loan move for Stuttgart winger Badredine Bouanani. The summer business follows a major clear-out, with only four of the 14 players signed last summer still at the club. Sky Sports analyst Sahil Jaidka noted the scale of the activity. "For a second successive summer, Rangers have signed 14 players," Jaidka said.
How does the squad look now?
Manager Derek McInnes now has a first-team squad of just under 30 players. The influx creates competition for places, with defenders John Souttar and Clinton Nsiala and winger Ross McCausland potentially facing reduced playing time. Midfielder Nicolas Raskin remains at Ibrox despite late interest from Turkish side Besiktas.
The injury to striker Youssef Chermiti, who suffered an ACL problem, prevented a potential big-money departure. One player who did leave on loan is Paul Nsio, who joined St Mirren. Fans can view the full updated roster on the club's squad page.
What was Rangers' transfer strategy?
The club pursued a clear strategy of reinforcement across the entire pitch. "Rangers have added in EVERY position, and they have spent big," Sahil Jaidka told Sky Sports. This comprehensive approach included the high-profile signing of Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland and the acquisition of midfielder Cammy Devlin.
The spending went beyond the headline fee for Kelsy, indicating a significant investment in the playing group. This rebuild comes as Rangers aim to close the gap at the top of the standings.
Who are the key new arrivals?
Kevin Kelsy's arrival as a centre-forward is a major statement of intent. The club also strengthened its defensive core with Minsu Kim, while the loan signing of Badredine Bouanani adds width and creativity. The experience of Lawrence Shankland provides a proven goal threat in the Premiership.
These signings are intended to provide McInnes with multiple options and greater depth. The manager will hope the new players can help improve a recent form line of two wins, a draw, and a loss.
What challenges does the squad face?
Integrating so many new players quickly is a primary challenge. The team's current league position shows there is room for improvement. The injury list, which includes key players, adds another layer of complexity to team selection. Supporters can monitor the latest fitness updates on the injuries page.
The size of the squad means McInnes must manage expectations and keep players motivated who are not in the immediate plans. The next test is an away match against Kilmarnock, who are 12th in the table, on 26 December 2026.
