Rangers have held talks to sign AEK Athens defender James Penrice, with new manager Derek McInnes a big fan.
In fact, McInnes has admitted he tried to sign the 27-year-old during his time with Kilmarnock, saying: “I thought it was a brilliant signing for Hearts when they got him. I tried to take him to Kilmarnock. I think he was almost like a young Andy Robertson when he got his move.
“I thought there were similarities. When I got the job at Hearts, I was kind of regretting saying that and thinking: ‘I hope we can just hold on to him’. But we always felt he was a slight risk. I think he’s done brilliantly for Hearts and he’s deserving of the opportunity that’s been given to him.”
Having also been lauded as “outstanding” by Neil Critchley, the 27-year-old has plenty of admirers, and for good reason, given the level of his performances for Hearts during the 2024-25 campaign.
The Scottish full-back picked up two goals and five assists in 33 Scottish Premiership matches, while also displaying his defensive qualities by averaging 2.4 tackles per 90, the third-highest number in the squad.
As such, it is no surprise clubs are queuing up to sign the AEK Athens man, with Celtic also expressing an interest earlier in the transfer window.
Rangers open talks to sign James Penrice
According to a report from GiveMeSport, Rangers have held talks to sign Penrice, and a deal could be possible, with it emerging that AEK Athens are now open to a sale.
Burnley have also been in discussions regarding a deal for the left-back, so there could be competition for his signature, even though he only played a limited role for AEK Athens last term.
The Livingston-born defender appeared for a total of just 1,088 minutes in the league, while also featuring for just 116 minutes across five appearances in the Europa Conference League.
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Why Rangers should sign James Penrice |
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Proven in the Scottish Premiership |
Crucially, Penrice has already proven himself in Scotland, having spent time with East Fife, Hearts, Livingston and Partick Thistle. He’s made 108 appearances in the Scottish Premiership, picking up four goals and 14 assists. |
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Lack of cover |
The Gers could do with some more depth at left-back, as Tuur Rommens is the only natural option in that area of the pitch, |
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Tuur Rommens yet to establish himself |
Rommens featured in the 1-1 draw against Dundee United which kicked the season off, but the 23-year-old is yet to establish himself in Scotland, having only made 13 appearances since arriving at Ibrox in January. As such, it would make sense to bring in another option with a proven Scottish Premiership track record. |
Rangers also want to replace John Souttar this summer, and two targets have now been identified.
