Godwin ObajeRangers in Advanced Talks to Land Leicester’s Conor Coady as Russell Martin Eyes Quick Deal
Rangers are stepping up efforts to land Conor Coady in a move that would mark one of Russell Martin’s marquee signings of the summer, with talks at an advanced stage between the Ibrox club and Leicester City.
Martin is pushing to have new additions integrated swiftly as Rangers prepare for next month’s crucial Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos. With pre-season now underway, the Rangers boss is understood to be eager for fresh arrivals to bed into the squad early — and Coady has emerged as the top target.
The 32-year-old, who has 10 England caps, still has a year remaining on his deal at the King Power Stadium but is open to making the switch to Glasgow. A longer-term contract is on the table for the experienced defender, which could offer him the security and fresh challenge he’s seeking after Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League.
Coady joined Leicester from Wolves in 2023 but has seen his opportunities limited. With the Foxes now looking to trim their wage bill following their return to the Championship, they are open to parting ways with the centre-back.
Rangers sporting director Kevin Thelwell knows Coady well, having signed him during his time at Everton, and is keen to reunite with the defender in Glasgow. Martin and Thelwell believe his leadership, experience and organisational qualities would provide a significant boost to Rangers’ backline.
Coady, who came through the ranks at Liverpool, made his name at Wolves, where he captained the side through several Premier League campaigns and a European run under Nuno Espírito Santo. A loan stint at Everton followed, before he moved to Leicester.
Meanwhile, Rangers are also pressing ahead with a loan deal for Max Aarons from Bournemouth. The full-back previously worked under Martin at Norwich, and a reunion at Ibrox is edging closer. Rangers are also in pursuit of Peterborough winger Kwame Poku, with a cross-border move potentially allowing them to secure the Ghana international for a knockdown fee.
Outgoings are expected at Ibrox as part of the summer reshuffle. Dutch side FC Twente are monitoring Robin Propper, while AEK Athens remain keen on Cyriel Dessers — although their valuation currently falls short of Rangers’ asking price.
The urgency to complete key business ahead of their European campaign reflects Martin’s ambition to stamp his authority on the squad quickly. Coady’s experience at both domestic and international level is seen as a crucial asset, particularly with a high-stakes Champions League tie looming.
Should Rangers finalise the deal in the coming days, it would signal both a statement of intent from Martin and a step forward in reshaping a squad aiming to reclaim the Scottish Premiership title and reach the group stage of Europe’s premier competition.
Godwin Obaje
