adminCyriel Dessers in Exit Talks as Rangers Face Summer Transfer Twist Amid AEK Athens Interest
Cyriel Dessers could be on the move this summer as Rangers have reportedly opened discussions over a potential transfer, with Greek side AEK Athens emerging as serious contenders for the striker’s signature.
The 30-year-old Nigerian international was a key part of Rangers’ squad during the 2024/25 campaign, featuring in an impressive 55 matches across all competitions and scoring 29 goals. Despite this prolific return, Dessers continues to divide opinion among the Ibrox faithful, with some supporters questioning his consistency and overall contribution to the team’s style of play.
Talks Underway with AEK Athens
According to well-known Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos, AEK Athens have entered into negotiations with Rangers for the striker, suggesting that Dessers could be heading for the Scottish Premiership exit door this summer. Chorianopoulos, writing on 9 June, stated that AEK are actively pursuing the former Genk and Cremonese forward as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.
While there is no confirmation yet on the financial terms involved or how close a deal may be to completion, it’s clear that the Greek outfit see Dessers as a major potential signing. With AEK keen to strengthen after narrowly missing out on domestic glory, adding an experienced European goal-scorer could be a significant statement of intent.
Previous Exit Links and January Rumours
This is not the first time Dessers has been tipped to leave Rangers. He was strongly linked with an Ibrox exit during the January 2025 transfer window, with reports suggesting a financial package was being prepared for his departure. However, the move never materialised, and Dessers remained in Glasgow for the remainder of the season, ultimately playing a pivotal role in the club’s European and domestic campaigns.
Now, with another summer window open, fresh interest from Europe could tempt both player and club to consider a change. At 30 years old, Dessers may view this as one of the last major moves of his career, especially if he is offered a long-term deal in a top-flight European league.
A Season of Mixed Reviews Despite Strong Numbers
Dessers’ statistics from the 2024/25 season paint the picture of a productive striker. In 55 games across all competitions, he found the net 29 times and provided seven assists. This included 12 goals in the Scottish Premiership, three in the UEFA Europa League, four in the Scottish League Cup, and three in the Scottish FA Cup. He also struck once during Champions League qualifying.
Yet, despite these figures, his performances have not always convinced everyone. Some critics point to missed chances in key games or a perceived lack of sharpness in link-up play. Others, however, argue that his output – particularly in a Rangers side that has endured inconsistency and upheaval – should not be dismissed.
Notably, Dessers drew attention earlier this season for scoring a vital goal against Manchester United in a Europa League clash, reminding fans and pundits alike of his knack for delivering on the big stage.
A Valuable Asset in a Tight Market
Rangers signed Dessers in 2023 for a reported fee of £4.5million. Given his goal return and the fact that he still has two years left on his current deal, it’s understandable that the club are unlikely to let him leave on the cheap.
There is growing belief within Ibrox circles that any deal for the Nigerian striker should exceed £5million. In today’s inflated transfer market, and considering Dessers’ experience and durability – having avoided any serious injuries during his time at the club – a higher asking price would reflect his true market value.
In addition, the club faces a potential shortage in forward options, with other attacking players either underperforming or facing uncertain futures themselves. Letting Dessers go for a cut-price fee would not only weaken Rangers’ firepower but also reduce their financial leverage when seeking a replacement.
Rangers’ Summer Transfer Strategy in Motion
The club’s summer transfer activity is already ramping up under new boss Russell Martin, with multiple targets reportedly identified to refresh the squad. Reports suggest Rangers are looking to bring in experienced English defender Conor Coady and are also keen to reunite Martin with a 27-year-old star he has previously worked with.
Moreover, Rangers are said to be closely monitoring the transfer situation around Croatian striker Matija Frigan, with an eye on hijacking a move from a rival club. All of these developments indicate that the club are preparing for the potential exit of one or more current attackers – with Dessers now firmly in that conversation.
Martin is understood to have received assurances that funds will be made available to reshape the squad, particularly if players like Dessers depart for sizable fees.
Dessers’ Impact and What Comes Next
Cyriel Dessers may not have won over every Rangers supporter, but his contribution over the last two seasons has been significant. He scored 22 goals in his debut season at Ibrox before following up with 29 this term, becoming one of the club’s most consistent scorers during a turbulent period.
He has featured prominently in key matches and has shown leadership qualities on and off the pitch. His ability to handle the pressure of playing for one of Scotland’s biggest clubs and deliver goals across multiple competitions makes him a valuable commodity.
As talks progress with AEK Athens, the next few weeks could be pivotal. Should Rangers receive a strong offer that meets or exceeds their valuation, and if Dessers is open to a new challenge, a deal could be struck quickly. On the other hand, if negotiations stall or no better options present themselves, he could very well remain in Glasgow for another season.
Final Thoughts
The situation surrounding Cyriel Dessers highlights the complexity of modern football transfers. While statistics support the case for keeping him, fan sentiment, age, and the potential for reinvestment also come into play.
If Rangers do part ways with the Nigerian striker, they must ensure they secure maximum value and have a reliable replacement lined up. Losing a player who has delivered over 50 goals in two seasons without a clear succession plan would be a major risk.
For now, the transfer saga continues – and Ibrox waits to see whether one of its main strikers will be wearing yellow and black in Athens come August.
Godwin Obaje
