Godwin ObajeRangers Agree Deal for Max Aarons as Russell Martin Targets Defensive Reinforcements
Rangers have reached an agreement to sign Bournemouth right-back Max Aarons on a season-long loan, with the 24-year-old poised to become the club’s second summer signing under Russell Martin.
The move represents a calculated and potentially shrewd piece of business from the Ibrox side, as they aim to reinforce key areas ahead of a season that will demand both domestic improvement and European ambition. Aarons, once a rising star at Norwich City, is now seeking to reignite his career after a mixed spell on the south coast.
It’s understood that the deal with Bournemouth includes a loan arrangement, with Rangers covering a significant portion of the player’s wages. There is currently no obligation to buy, though sources suggest that a permanent move could be revisited depending on Aarons’ impact in Glasgow.
Aarons spent the second half of last season on loan at Valencia, making 13 appearances in La Liga. While his time in Spain wasn’t without its challenges, the experience offered him a reset after falling down the pecking order under Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.
Rangers manager Russell Martin, who previously worked with Aarons during their time at Norwich, has long admired the defender’s ability to operate with pace and aggression on the flanks. The reunion at Ibrox could provide the platform both parties need.
Speaking earlier this month, Martin offered a broad hint that new additions were on the horizon:
“We know where we want to strengthen, and it’s about bringing in the right profiles — not just in terms of talent but mentality. Players who understand what it means to play for this club.”
Aarons fits that mould. Still only 24, he brings experience across the Premier League, La Liga, and the Championship. His energy and forward thrust could complement Martin’s tactical approach, which emphasises width and quick transitions from defence to attack.
The former England U21 international was linked with several Premier League sides in previous transfer windows, but injuries and managerial changes at Bournemouth saw his career stall. A fresh environment at Rangers — with European football on offer and a clearly defined role under Martin — could offer him a valuable route back to prominence.
Aarons’ arrival would also add competition for places at right-back, where Rangers have leaned heavily on captain James Tavernier in recent seasons. With Tavernier turning 34 next year, Martin will be keen to manage his minutes while ensuring the side remains competitive.
The deal is expected to be formally announced in the coming days, with Aarons already believed to have given the green light following positive talks with Martin and Rangers’ recruitment team.
Aarons’ addition follows the capture of Lyall Cameron from Dundee earlier this week, and signals a clear intent from Rangers to address squad depth early in the window. More arrivals are anticipated, particularly in midfield and up front, as Martin looks to reshape the team in his image ahead of pre-season.
With Aarons set to pull on a Rangers shirt, attention now turns to whether the Ibrox club can push through more early deals — and build the kind of squad capable of reclaiming domestic supremacy from Celtic and making a mark in Europe.
Godwin Obaje
