adminRangers Given Transfer Boost as Nottingham Forest Confirm Exit of Harry Toffolo
Rangers have been handed a potential transfer opportunity after Nottingham Forest officially confirmed the departure of experienced defender Harry Toffolo. The 29-year-old left-back, whose contract with Forest expires this summer, has been heavily linked with a move to Ibrox—and recent developments have now cleared a major hurdle to that possibility.
Toffolo’s availability on a free transfer could prove to be a valuable option for new Rangers manager Russell Martin as he looks to put his stamp on the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. With the backing of the club’s new ownership group—49ers Enterprises, alongside key figure Andrew Cavenagh—Rangers are aiming to bolster key areas of the team without stretching financial limits, and acquiring a seasoned Premier League performer at no cost would certainly fit the bill.
Nottingham Forest Say Farewell to a Valued Contributor
Nottingham Forest confirmed Toffolo’s exit in an official club statement published on June 9, noting the defender’s contributions both on and off the pitch since his arrival from Huddersfield Town in 2022.
“Nottingham Forest can confirm that Harry Toffolo will depart the Club upon the expiration of his contract this summer,” read the statement. “Since his arrival, Toffolo has made an invaluable contribution not only on the pitch, but also off it.”
While Toffolo made a total of 57 appearances for Forest, his impact extended beyond the football field. He was notably active in the community, earning recognition for his role as an ambassador for “Tricky to Talk,” the club’s mental health initiative. Through this program, he shared his personal experiences and supported others facing similar challenges, solidifying his reputation as a role model for fans and teammates alike.
He was also a frequent visitor to Forest’s youth-oriented Soccer Schools, providing inspiration and encouragement to young, aspiring footballers. These efforts were formally acknowledged when he was named the club’s PFA Community Champion for the 2023/24 season.
On the field, Toffolo’s most memorable moment came during a critical Premier League clash away to Tottenham Hotspur in April 2025. His heroic goal-line clearance helped secure a vital 2-1 win for Forest, a result that proved crucial in their pursuit of European qualification for the first time in three decades.
Additionally, Toffolo scored his only goal for the Reds in a 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers in December 2023. That strike meant he had successfully scored in all four tiers of English professional football—an achievement that highlights the resilience and upward trajectory of his career.
Rangers Eye Left-Back Reinforcement
Reports over the weekend indicated that Toffolo would be open to a move to Rangers if the opportunity arose, and his now-confirmed exit from Nottingham Forest gives the Glasgow club the green light to make a formal approach.
While the left-back position isn’t currently a problem area for Rangers, there is uncertainty over the long-term futures of their existing options. Brazilian full-back Jefte, signed in 2023, has attracted attention from clubs abroad, and Turkish international Ridvan Yilmaz has been persistently linked with a return to his homeland since arriving at Ibrox.
The club also has promising youngster Robbie Fraser, who impressed on loan at Livingston as they earned promotion back to the Scottish Premiership. However, with Fraser still relatively inexperienced at top-flight level and the potential for departures, Rangers may view Toffolo as a proven, ready-made solution to add depth and competition on the left side of defence.
At 29, Toffolo offers a blend of experience and consistency. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, combined with leadership and community engagement, could align well with the culture that Russell Martin is looking to instil at Rangers.
Russell Martin’s Summer Rebuild Begins
New Rangers boss Russell Martin is embarking on a significant summer rebuild as he prepares for his first full season at the helm. The former Swansea and Southampton manager is known for his progressive football philosophy and commitment to developing technically astute teams. Securing versatile and professional players like Toffolo, who can fit into a high-tempo, possession-based system, would be a strong early signal of intent.
The Ibrox club have already been linked with a range of players across different positions as Martin assesses the squad he’s inherited. Names such as Jamie Vardy, Flynn Downes, Dor Turgeman, and Conor Coady have been mentioned as potential targets, showcasing the club’s ambition and the diverse range of talent being considered.
With financial constraints still a reality despite new investment, free transfers like Toffolo’s become even more appealing. His leadership qualities and Premier League background would bring an added layer of quality and depth, particularly as Rangers prepare for domestic and European campaigns.
What Next for Toffolo?
Now officially a free agent, Toffolo is expected to attract interest from multiple clubs in both the UK and abroad. However, the lure of playing for a club of Rangers’ stature, with the chance to compete for silverware and feature in European competitions, could prove decisive.
Rangers offer not only the opportunity for Toffolo to continue playing at a high level but also a platform where his off-field contributions would be appreciated and supported. Given his previous work with community and mental health initiatives, he may find a kindred spirit in a club that values community engagement and fan interaction.
Furthermore, the potential for working under Russell Martin—known for his emphasis on player development and inclusive squad culture—may also appeal to Toffolo as he considers the next chapter in his career.
Conclusion: An Open Door for Rangers
With his Nottingham Forest chapter now closed, Harry Toffolo represents a compelling option for Rangers in their summer recruitment drive. The experienced left-back’s proven quality, community values, and versatility make him a smart, low-risk option for a club looking to strengthen across the pitch while building a new identity under fresh leadership.
Whether Rangers make a formal move remains to be seen, but the door is now wide open. Toffolo’s willingness to consider a switch to Ibrox, combined with his free-agent status, means this is a transfer story that could gather pace quickly in the coming days.
Should Russell Martin and the recruitment team decide to act, Rangers fans may soon be welcoming a new face at left-back—one with Premier League pedigree and a passion for making a difference on and off the pitch.
Godwin Obaje
