Godwin ObajeJoe Rothwell Turns Down Major Offers as Rangers Circle Midfield Target
Rangers’ pursuit of midfield reinforcements under new manager Russell Martin has taken a notable turn, with Joe Rothwell emerging as a key target—amid fresh reports that the Bournemouth midfielder has turned down major offers from elsewhere.
Rothwell, 29, has returned to the Cherries following a loan spell at Southampton, and his name is now gaining traction within the corridors of Ibrox as the club seeks to add experience and guile in the centre of the park. While Rangers are yet to finalise a deal, Rothwell’s decision to reject significant approaches from rival clubs has kept the Scottish giants firmly in the mix.
It’s understood that Rothwell, who joined Bournemouth in 2022 from Blackburn Rovers, is open to a new challenge this summer. His stylistic profile—comfortable on the ball, progressive in transition, and tactically intelligent—appeals to Russell Martin, who previously managed him at Southampton and is now steering the early stages of his tenure in Glasgow.
A source close to the situation told Football Insider: “Rothwell has had a few serious offers from both Championship and overseas clubs, but he’s being very selective. Rangers are one of the clubs in the conversation, and the interest is very real.”
Rothwell’s ability to dictate play from deep and link defence to attack is exactly the sort of technical profile Martin wants as he rebuilds a Rangers midfield that is undergoing transition. With John Lundstram and Ryan Jack both departing and uncertainty still hanging over others in the squad, there is space for a composed and dynamic presence.
The player’s history under Martin at Southampton is seen as a significant factor in the potential move. While his loan spell at St Mary’s was curtailed by injury and rotation, Rothwell impressed in his limited appearances and is believed to retain a strong working relationship with the new Rangers boss.
Despite the speculation, Bournemouth have yet to publicly state their position on Rothwell’s future. However, with Andoni Iraola reshaping his own squad and limited first-team minutes likely at the Vitality Stadium, an exit appears plausible. Rothwell still has time remaining on his contract, but a structured offer from Rangers could tempt both player and club into action.
Russell Martin is understood to be prioritising early arrivals this summer, particularly with the club’s Champions League qualifiers fast approaching. Rothwell, with his familiarity of Martin’s demands and his experience at Championship and Premier League level, fits the profile of a ready-made option.
While no agreement has been struck, Rangers are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely, and further developments could unfold rapidly in the coming days. Rothwell’s rejection of other clubs only strengthens the likelihood of a move to Glasgow, particularly given the existing rapport with Martin and the opportunity to play a central role in Rangers’ midfield evolution.
The transfer window may still be in its early stages, but Rangers’ intent is clear—and Rothwell could yet become a cornerstone of Russell Martin’s Ibrox project.
Godwin Obaje
