Godwin ObajeJoe Rothwell Undergoes Rangers Medical Ahead of Ibrox Switch
Rangers are closing in on their third signing of the summer, with Joe Rothwell in Glasgow to undergo a medical ahead of a permanent move from Bournemouth.
The 30-year-old midfielder is expected to join Russell Martin’s Ibrox rebuild in the coming days after the two clubs agreed terms on Tuesday. Rothwell arrived in Glasgow on Wednesday morning to complete the final stages of the transfer, as reported by Rangers Review’s Joshua Barrie.
Rothwell’s signing marks another significant step in Martin’s plans to reshape the Rangers midfield, following the arrivals of right-back Max Aarons on loan and midfielder Lyall Cameron on a free transfer. Rothwell will be seen as a first-team regular and is expected to add both experience and technical quality to the heart of the pitch.
The former Southampton loanee spent last season at Leeds United, where he played a key role in helping Daniel Farke’s side secure promotion back to the Premier League. With Bournemouth looking to streamline their squad, and Rangers keen on adding depth, Rothwell’s move north of the border offers a fresh start for the midfielder and a reunion with Martin, who managed him at St Mary’s.
Martin, tasked with revitalising the Gers after a season of domestic disappointment, has been targeting midfielders capable of executing his high-pressing, possession-based philosophy. Rothwell fits the bill.
A breakdown of Rothwell’s career to date highlights his wealth of experience across English football:
Oxford United: 86 appearances, 8 goals
Blackburn Rovers: 161 appearances, 11 goals, 18 assists
Bournemouth: 35 appearances, 1 goal
Leeds United (loan): 39 appearances
Southampton (loan): 20 appearances, 4 assists
Other loan spells: Barnsley, Blackpool
If the final details go as expected, Rothwell will become a key figure in the new-look midfield alongside Belgian international Nico Raskin.
Analysts believe the pair could form a well-balanced partnership under Martin’s system. Raskin, a tenacious No.6 with a knack for breaking up play and controlling tempo, is expected to operate as the deep-lying pivot. Rothwell, who boasts a strong pass completion rate and is known for his ball-carrying and pressing, would take up the No.8 role, tasked with transitioning the team from defence to attack.
“Joe’s got great energy, good quality on the ball and he understands the way we want to play,” Martin previously said when managing Rothwell at Southampton. “He’s someone who can help control games and make things happen.”
The tactical chemistry between Rothwell and Raskin will be vital as Rangers prepare for a gruelling season that includes Champions League qualifiers and the challenge of unseating Celtic from domestic dominance. Martin is expected to use intensive tactical drills to build cohesion between the midfield duo and ensure fluid transitions between defence and attack.
An official announcement on Rothwell’s signing is anticipated within the next 48 hours, with the midfielder poised to link up with the squad for pre-season training.
The Ibrox rebuild is gaining pace—and Rothwell’s arrival could be a cornerstone of Martin’s new era.
Godwin Obaje
