Godwin ObajeDessers Upgrade at Ibrox? Rangers Eye “Complete Number 9” as Forward’s Future Hangs in Balance
Glasgow Rangers boss Russell Martin is wasting no time reshaping his first-team squad ahead of what he hopes will be a successful European qualifying campaign later this month. Yet one name still causing debate among the Ibrox faithful is Cyriel Dessers, whose future at the club looks increasingly uncertain.
Dessers, who turned 30 earlier this year, was conspicuously absent from Rangers’ recent pre-season friendly draw, fuelling speculation that a summer exit might be on the cards. Martin did little to cool the rumours, confirming that the club has already knocked back an offer for the striker, who has attracted interest from Greek side AEK Athens.
However, with Rangers reportedly on the lookout for what insiders are describing as a “complete number 9,” many are now wondering whether it might make sense for the club to cash in on Dessers while they still can.
Financially, the logic is clear. With only two years left on his contract, the Nigerian international will soon enter the final year of his deal — significantly reducing any future transfer value. As one source put it: “This summer could be the club’s last chance to get optimal value for the former Cremonese star, as he will only have 12 months left on his deal next summer at the age of 31.”
There’s also a footballing argument to be made. While Dessers’ work rate has rarely been questioned, his goal return has not always matched the expectations that come with leading the line at Ibrox. Big moments require big players, and many feel that Dessers has not been clinical enough to shoulder that responsibility alone. As Rangers look to strengthen their attack, bringing in a more consistent finisher could prove decisive in tight domestic and European clashes.
Russell Martin appears keen to raise the bar in this area. He is understood to be pushing for reinforcements up front, with scouts reportedly compiling a shortlist of strikers who can offer a more complete package — the physical presence, technical link-up play, and ruthless finishing that define a top-class centre forward. The phrase “complete number 9” has been used repeatedly behind the scenes, suggesting that Martin wants a forward who can do more than just poach goals.
That said, Rangers’ manager has also made it clear that any departure will be on the club’s terms. He recently told reporters that the bid for Dessers did not match their valuation and that the player remains part of his plans — for now. Whether that situation holds once a suitable replacement is lined up remains to be seen.
In truth, the next few weeks could be decisive. Rangers must balance the immediate need to bank a fee that can be reinvested, with the challenge of bedding in a new striker ahead of crucial European qualifiers. One thing is certain: the noise around Dessers’ future is unlikely to quieten until the window slams shut.
For a club determined to reclaim top honours in Scotland and make an impact in Europe, hard choices are inevitable. Cyriel Dessers may soon find himself the latest casualty of a summer rebuild that shows no signs of slowing down.
Godwin Obaje
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