Godwin ObajeJoe Rothwell Set for Rangers Switch as Russell Martin Rebuild Takes Shape
Rangers are on the verge of confirming the signing of Joe Rothwell, with the experienced midfielder expected to become one of the first pieces in Russell Martin’s summer rebuild at Ibrox.
The 30-year-old is primed to reunite with Martin, having previously played under the former Swansea and Southampton boss during his loan stint at the Vitality Stadium. Rothwell, who most recently turned out for Bournemouth in the Premier League, had fallen down the pecking order on the south coast and is now set to embrace a fresh start in Glasgow.
Martin, who took the Rangers job following the departure of Philippe Clement, faces a significant task in reshaping a squad that fell short last season. Celtic’s domestic dominance continued as Rangers once again ended the campaign empty-handed, but optimism is beginning to build among the Ibrox support that change is in motion.
Sources close to the deal have confirmed that the announcement of Rothwell’s arrival is imminent, with only the final formalities left to complete. The move represents a key moment in Martin’s recruitment strategy, centred around players who fit his possession-based system and understand his methods.
Rothwell offers versatility in midfield and has long been admired for his ability to carry the ball from deep and operate between the lines. During his loan spell at Southampton last season, he made 17 appearances under Martin’s guidance, playing a steady role in their push for promotion.
Speaking previously about Rothwell, Martin was full of praise for the midfielder’s technical qualities and adaptability.
“Joe’s got great energy, good quality on the ball and he understands the way we want to play,” Martin said during their time together at Southampton. “He’s someone who can help control games and make things happen.”
That level of familiarity is likely to prove crucial as Martin looks to implement his philosophy at Ibrox. With pre-season already underway and Champions League qualifiers looming, the new manager is eager to hit the ground running and wants key additions in place as early as possible.
Rothwell’s arrival is not expected to be the last. Rangers are actively working on multiple deals, with recruitment focused on adding both depth and technical quality to a squad that often looked short of ideas in possession last term.
The club are also mindful of ensuring any incomings have the character and resilience required to handle the unique pressures of life in Glasgow.
For Rothwell, the move marks a new chapter at a club with huge expectations. With over 300 senior appearances across spells at Oxford, Blackburn, Bournemouth and Southampton, the midfielder arrives with experience in abundance—and a clear understanding of what his new manager demands.
An official unveiling is anticipated within the next 24 to 48 hours, barring any last-minute complications. Once confirmed, Rothwell will join his new teammates at Rangers’ pre-season base as Martin begins the process of forging a team capable of reclaiming domestic honours.
The rebuild is on—and Joe Rothwell looks set to be at the heart of it.
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Godwin Obaje
