Godwin ObajeExclusive: Rangers confident of sealing Conor Coady deal next week as talks near conclusion
Rangers are growing increasingly confident of completing a deal for Leicester City centre-back Conor Coady, with negotiations between the clubs now at an advanced stage, Football Insider understands.
Sources close to the discussions have confirmed that all parties are optimistic about finalising the transfer early next week, in what would represent a major coup for the Scottish giants as they look to bolster their defensive ranks ahead of the new season.
Coady, 32, has emerged as a top target for manager Russell Martin, who sees the former England international as the ideal candidate to bring leadership, composure, and experience to his back line. The Ibrox club are in the market for proven defensive quality, and the former Wolves captain fits the profile perfectly.
The veteran centre-half still has a year remaining on his contract at Leicester, but the Foxes are open to offers following their recent restructuring, and Coady himself is believed to be keen on the move to Glasgow. He is understood to have been impressed by the ambition shown by Rangers’ new-look football department, and sources say personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block.
“All parties are hopeful of concluding the 32-year-old’s Ibrox switch early next week,” one source told Football Insider, underlining the positive momentum building around the deal.
Coady joined Leicester City last summer after a spell at Everton, but his opportunities at the King Power Stadium were limited as the club focused on integrating younger options into their back line. Despite that, his influence off the pitch and leadership credentials were regularly praised, and it’s that character which has made him such an attractive target for Rangers.
Russell Martin is known to value players who can help set standards in the dressing room, and Coady’s reputation as a model professional with elite-level experience – including in European competition and international tournaments – would be a major asset for Rangers as they prepare for a return to continental action.
The move also reflects the club’s broader transfer strategy this summer: combining experienced leaders with younger, high-potential talents. Coady would join a squad already being reshaped in Martin’s image, and his arrival would be viewed as a key step towards adding balance and stability at the heart of defence.
The negotiations are understood to be progressing smoothly, with final details being discussed regarding the structure of the deal. While no official fee has been disclosed, the transfer is expected to be modest given the player’s contract situation and Leicester’s willingness to move him on.
Should the deal be completed, Coady would become one of Rangers’ marquee summer additions, and his arrival would send a clear message of the club’s intent to challenge Celtic for domestic dominance while also making an impact in Europe.
With talks moving swiftly, a formal announcement could arrive as early as next week, barring any late complications.
Godwin Obaje
admin
