Godwin ObajeDessers Nearing Rangers Exit as AEK Athens Offer £30k-a-Week Deal
The Russell Martin era at Rangers is beginning to take shape — and that could include the departure of Cyriel Dessers, with the striker edging closer to an Ibrox exit after reaching a personal agreement with AEK Athens.
The Greek outfit have reportedly struck terms with the Nigerian international on a £30,000-per-week contract, making the 30-year-old their number one attacking target this summer. According to The Daily Record, negotiations are now centred on finalising a transfer fee, with AEK understood to be willing to pay upwards of £5 million to secure the forward.
Dessers has enjoyed a decent return since arriving from Cremonese in 2023, netting 34 goals over two Premiership campaigns. However, his time in Glasgow has been polarising. While his numbers suggest a striker with value, his finishing has often left much to be desired. Across his two seasons at Ibrox, he has missed a concerning 48 big chances in the league — a figure that has made him a source of both hope and frustration for supporters.
His style has drawn a mixed response. A physical presence who works tirelessly across the front line, Dessers can occupy defenders and create chaos. Journalist Josh Bunting once noted the unique challenge he poses, describing him as “awkward to play against due to his physicality.”
Despite that, the feeling within the club appears to be that now is the right time to move on. Rangers’ new American owners are reportedly keen to maximise value on their assets, and the funds generated from Dessers’ potential sale would allow Martin and sporting director Kevin Thelwell to pursue a more clinical option — a striker capable of delivering in key moments with greater consistency.
Dessers’ return of 18 goals in all competitions last season is a solid contribution by most standards, but his wastefulness in front of goal — particularly in high-stakes situations — has undermined his overall impact. Martin, who is preparing for his first transfer window at the helm, is believed to favour a more ruthless presence in attack as part of his tactical overhaul.
The reshaping of the squad doesn’t end with Dessers. Dutch centre-back Robin Pröpper could also be on the move, with FC Twente hoping to bring their former captain back to the Eredivisie. RangersReview previously reported that Pröpper is expected to leave this summer, and a three-year deal with Twente is understood to be agreed in principle.
Speaking to the media this week, Twente sporting director Jan Streuer provided an update on the situation: “We have to wait and see with him. Robin wants to hear from his club on what they’re going to do.”
Pröpper, who made his mark with two goals in the Premiership last term, has struggled to cement a consistent role in a competitive backline at Rangers.
As Rangers enter a new chapter under Martin, both departures signal a shift in strategy and personnel — one that could define the club’s direction ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Further changes are expected before the window closes, with Ibrox braced for a summer of high turnover.
Godwin Obaje
