“He’s the Most Promising Player in Scotland” – 22-year-old Midfielder Set to Undergo Medicals at Ibrox After Deal Has Been Finalised in a £1m Move

Rangers Set to Land Dundee’s Josh Mulligan as Russell Martin Era Begins

Rangers are closing in on their first signing of the Russell Martin era, with Scotland Under-21 international Josh Mulligan set to make the move from Dundee in a deal worth around £1 million.

The 22-year-old midfielder is expected to undergo a medical in Glasgow in the coming days, with personal terms reportedly well advanced. Mulligan, long considered one of Scottish football’s brightest young talents, will become the first addition under Martin, who recently took the reins at Ibrox following his departure from Southampton.

The transfer represents a statement of intent from Martin and the Rangers board, as they look to reshape the squad ahead of a vital pre-season and a renewed bid to challenge Celtic domestically and compete in Europe.

A New Direction at Ibrox

Russell Martin has been clear about his desire to implement a high-intensity, possession-based style at Ibrox — and bringing in Mulligan aligns with that vision.

The midfielder’s arrival would add depth to a group already featuring Nicolas Raskin, Mohamed Diomande, Connor Barron, and Lyall Cameron. Mulligan’s versatility, having played in central midfield, on the wing, and at right-back, is seen as a key attribute.

Rangers are understood to view him as a long-term project who can develop into a core contributor: a player with the “tenacity, versatility and engine” to thrive in Martin’s system.

Beating English Competition

Rangers have reportedly fended off interest from Salford City, whose boardroom is now spearheaded by high-profile names like David Beckham and Gary Neville. The ambitious League Two club is believed to have offered higher wages to tempt Mulligan south.

However, the lure of Ibrox proved decisive. The prestige of playing for one of Scotland’s most storied clubs, coupled with the opportunity to compete in European competition, helped tip the scales.

The move is being seen as a footballing decision, with Mulligan said to be drawn to the “project being built under Russell Martin and the renewed ambition now evident at Rangers.”

From Dens Park to Ibrox

A product of Dundee’s youth system, Mulligan made his senior debut during the 2018/19 season. He has since clocked up 122 appearances, scoring six goals and registering 10 assists. He also played a pivotal role in Dundee’s Championship title win in 2022/23 and had a successful loan stint at Cove Rangers, contributing to their League Two triumph.

At just 22, Mulligan brings significant experience and the potential to grow further. His involvement with the Scotland Under-21s underlines his international ambitions — and Ibrox may provide the platform to reach the senior setup.

A Homegrown Statement

Rangers have at times been criticised for overlooking domestic talent, but Mulligan’s signing marks a clear pivot. With UEFA’s homegrown quotas and a desire to build a more sustainable squad, investing in Scottish youth appears to be back on the agenda.

If completed, the Mulligan deal would be a logical and progressive first step in Martin’s Ibrox rebuild. A young, versatile, homegrown midfielder who’s ready to contribute — and capable of much more.