Godwin ObajeFive Free Agents Rangers Could Re-Sign This Summer – Including a Fan Favourite and Former Tottenham Starlet
As Russell Martin begins his rebuild at Rangers, the summer window presents not only the chance to strengthen but to do so smartly. With the manager expected to overhaul parts of the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, the free agent market offers pragmatic solutions — and in some cases, familiar faces.
Several former Rangers players are currently unattached, and with the club likely balancing ambition with financial caution, some could be attractive options. From fan favourites to untapped potential, these five ex-Ibrox men may just fit the bill.
- Daniel Candeias – Fan Favourite and Hard Worker
Daniel Candeias left an indelible mark during his two-season stint in Govan, clocking up more than 90 appearances after signing from Benfica for £700,000. His relentless work rate and chemistry with James Tavernier on the right flank made him a key cog in the side’s attacking patterns.
Though he departed for Turkey in 2019, featuring for clubs like Gençlerbirliği and Adanaspor, the 36-year-old winger is now a free agent. While no longer in his prime, his experience and professionalism could offer Rangers valuable depth or leadership.
Candeias remains a fan favourite, remembered for his commitment and engine — qualities Martin could value in a squad role.
- Ovie Ejaria – The Untapped Flair
Signed on loan from Liverpool in 2018, Ovie Ejaria’s Rangers spell was short-lived but filled with glimpses of technical brilliance. He was recalled midway through the season after failing to fully settle, but Steven Gerrard remained optimistic, saying at the time: “Ovie is a player with so much potential. He just needed the right environment. It’s about finding consistency.”
After permanent moves to Reading, Ejaria’s career stalled amid injuries and club instability. Still only 27 and available after trials with Plymouth and Zamalek, he represents a possible project signing — especially under a coach like Martin, who favours technical, intelligent midfielders.
- Andy Firth – The Trusted Squad Man
Goalkeeper Andy Firth, while never a first-choice, was part of the Rangers squad during their title-winning 2020/21 season. A dependable training ground presence, the former Liverpool youth ‘keeper now 28, has been combining playing with coaching duties in recent years.
With Jack Butland and Robby McCrorie ahead of him, Firth wouldn’t be returning to challenge for the No.1 shirt — but his experience in the environment and leadership could help maintain standards in a long campaign.
- Nathan Young-Coombes – A Return to Develop
The 22-year-old forward, once part of Rangers’ youth setup, left for Brentford in 2019. Despite impressing in their B team and earning loans at AFC Wimbledon, he is now seeking a fresh start after his contract expired.
Young-Coombes, who also came through Tottenham’s academy, has the technical base and pace to fit Martin’s forward-thinking blueprint. A return to Ibrox, even to develop further in the B team or as a rotational option, would be a low-risk investment in homegrown potential.
- Greg Docherty – Local Drive and Energy
Signed from Hamilton in 2018, Greg Docherty struggled for minutes at Rangers but showed his quality on loan at Shrewsbury before excelling at Hull City, where he was part of their League One promotion side.
Still only 28 and a free agent, Docherty offers energy, athleticism, and tenacity — attributes that could dovetail well with Martin’s high-pressing style. He would also help meet Scottish player quotas and add depth to a midfield that’s expected to evolve this summer.
Final Word
With Ibrox expecting change under Russell Martin, tapping into the free agent market — especially familiar faces who understand the weight of the badge — could bring balance and leadership to the dressing room. Whether it’s Candeias’ experience, Ejaria’s creativity, or Docherty’s drive, each brings a different layer of value to a squad in transition.
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Godwin Obaje
