Godwin ObajeRangers Launch Major Summer Rebuild as Dessers Nears Exit and Medicals Begin
As Clement’s turbulent reign gave way to Russell Martin’s appointment, Rangers began a new chapter under American ownership this week — and those at Ibrox are already acutely aware that a seismic summer of change lies ahead.
Fresh investment and a mandate to restore Old Firm dominance means the summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the busiest in recent memory. With director of football Kevin Thelwell preparing to wield the axe, a shake‑up is expected across every department.
Medicals Begin for Key Target as Squad Overhaul Commences
Insiders have confirmed that Rangers have already commenced a series of medicals for several new recruits, with at least one marquee signing — believed to be a forward — expected to be finalised in the coming days. Club sources point to a striker who will bring Premier League or equivalent experience to Govan, designed to bolster Russell Martin’s attacking ambitions.
Speaking to SportsMail, a person close to the club remarked: “The medicals are underway. The board want him wrapped up before pre-season. It signals intent.” Whether this points to reinforcements from England, continental Europe, or elsewhere, it marks the start of what promises to be a bustling window.
Dessers Exit Inches Closer – Gers Ready to Cash In
Another significant development is the imminent departure of striker Cyriel Dessers. Having enjoyed a resurgence since his January move from Genk, Dessers has seen his stock rise during this transitional period at Ibrox. Though he has rediscovered a scoring touch, Rangers are said to be open to selling — provided they receive an offer that reflects his Premier League pedigree and goal return.
“K.T.” (Kevin Thelwell) and Martin are believed to have determined that the slot Dessers occupies is one they intend to fill with someone of higher athletic output and consistency at top level. It doesn’t detract from his contribution — he arrived when the club needed firepower and delivered — but if Rangers receive an acceptable bid, he is likely to be shown the door.
Roster Reshuffle: Who’s Staying and Who’s Going
It’s widely expected that several current first-teamers will not be retained as Martin begins to put his personal stamp on the squad. The likes of John Lundstram, whose contract expires this summer, are likely to depart, with midfield and wide‑area options carefully reviewed. Youth hopefuls will also be assessed — development offers without performance guarantees could be extended to some.
Goalkeeper Robby McCrorie, despite impressing on loan, may struggle to displace a new No.1, while veteran hires often considered vital for dressing-room stability might not fit with Martin’s modern, dynamic style of play.
Director Kevin Thelwell: The Axe Man in Charge
Director of Football Kevin Thelwell, who recently joined from Reading, is expected to play a decisive role in the rebuild. Fusing smart, data‑led scouting with ambitious transfers, the American‑backed hierarchy has tasked him with constructing a squad capable of challenging for domestic honours and re‑establishing Rangers on the European stage.
A source close to the negotiations said: “Kevin is not afraid to make tough calls. He’s backed by a board that wants results. Expect a clear-out and big picture planning — not tinkering.”
Russell Martin’s Vision: Energy, Youth and Tactical Cohesion
Brought in to deliver an identity and vision, Russell Martin has already had several face‑to‑face discussions with the board regarding style and targets. Friendly yet driven, Martin envisions a high‑tempo, possession‑based side that presses with intensity — ideal for both domestic success and European exploits.
Several of his top targets reportedly mirror this philosophy: mobile defenders, midfielders capable of ball progression, and strikers who can link play and press opponents relentlessly.
Martin has also demanded accountability; players deemed not to meet his fitness or attitude standards will be shown the door — regardless of their popularity. A bright, competitive training ground, he insists, is the foundation on which results are built.
Timing Is Key: Limit Exits, New Signings Before Pre-Season
Rangers are acutely aware of the necessity to balance squad continuity with fresh signings. Pre-season is pencilled in from late July, and Martin has urged director Kevin Thelwell to bring the core of his squad together before then.
A club insider stated: “Russell wants men available from day one — not piecemeal starts after the season begins. The board understand that urgency.”
To meet this, Thelwell is expected to coordinate with clubs in England, Scandinavia, and continental Europe — particularly in central midfield and centre-forward areas, where Rangers’ depth has been tested in recent seasons.
Supporters’ Expectations: Patience, Progress and European Return
Fans, while excited by the new backers and manager, understand the reality of rebuilding in modern football: “There’s optimism, but knowing this is a process,” said a supporter during a season ticket pick-up this week. Many believe radical change is necessary — though there is a collective yearning for immediate European impact.
To satisfy both domestic and continental ambitions, Rangers will likely adopt a relaxed approach in the transfer market: early signings, smart fee structures, with sell-ons and incentives built in. That, coupled with a tighter core of Martin-trusted players, could be the blueprint for future success.
Looking Ahead: What Could the Squad Look Like in August?
If the plan comes together — with striker reinforced, midfield strengthened, and squad culture aligned — the figures of July/August 2025 might look significantly different. Name-plates swapped, jersey numbers reassigned, and youthful quiet professionals integrated into the first XI.
Dessers’ departure, while emotive, would make way for a striker of heightened quality — and several fringe players will likely be shown the door to trim the wage bill and promote accountability.
Critically, the emphasis remains on building a coherent team with no compromises: dynamic fit, adaptable, and ready for high-level challenges.
Concluding Thoughts
What has begun in the corridors of Ibrox over the past week goes far beyond cosmetic change. It marks the start of a new era — one where ambition, structure, and intelligent design fuse to reinvigorate Rangers.
Russell Martin and Kevin Thelwell face a summer of difficult decisions and bold gambles. The upcoming weeks will reveal their fingerprints on the squad: confirming new arrivals after successful medicals, sanctioning exits for those not deemed part of the plan, and ensuring the rebuilt team reflects a modern, progressive philosophy.
If all goes to script, by the time the season starts, Rangers could boast a refreshed spine, renewed optimism, and a team ready to attack domestic targets and begin rekindling continental pride.
Godwin Obaje
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