As they continue their search for a new manager, Rangers have reportedly set their sights on bringing the next boss’ first new face to Ibrox when the transfer window swings open.
Latest on Rangers' manager search
The main focus for Rangers right now is finding their next manager and if recent reports are anything to go by, that’s likely to be a returning Steven Gerrard. The Liverpool legend has reportedly held “positive” initial talks with those at Ibrox and will be discussing further details about a potential return for the first time since leaving for Aston Villa in 2021.
The 49ers have turned towards the last manager to win the Scottish Premiership with the Gers following the failure of their Russell Martin appointment. The summer appointment lasted just 123 days after winning just once in seven league games.
To say that it’s not the start that the new owners would have hoped for is an understatement, but they’ve now got the chance to start afresh if Gerrard makes his return.
That’s not to say talks will be simple, though. Recent reports have indicated that Gerrard wants more control over transfers and a budget to operate with when the January transfer window arrives if he is to join Rangers again.
The 49ers already welcomed more than 10 fresh faces in the summer, with many yet to make their mark, but may need to spend once again in January to let Gerrard mark his stamp on the side. What that could also see is a return for summer targets that Kevin Thelwell missed out on, including one Championship star.
Rangers targeting Pierce Charles
As reported by Ibrox News, Rangers chiefs are now targeting a move to sign Pierce Charles from Sheffield Wednesday in 2026 after missing out on the shot-stopper’s signature in the summer. The Gers reportedly saw a £1m offer turned down by Sheffield Wednesday, despite the fact that money would have been enough for owner Dejphon Chansiri to pay players and staff on time.
Now, having maintained an interest in the goalkeeper, Thelwell could reignite Rangers’ interest in 2026. Gerrard could yet play an unexpected role in any deal too, after initial reports suggested that Charles was not keen to join the Gers if ex-Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl was handed the vacant managerial role.
With Gerrard the likeliest to arrive at this stage and Charles’ former goalkeeper coach Sal Bibbo keen to secure a reunion at Ibrox, the 20-year-old is still one to keep an eye on.
Described as an “amazing” prospect by Newcastle United star Anthony Elanga, Charles could bring Jack Butland’s tenure as Rangers’ No.1 to an end and provide the Gers’ next manager with an instant boost next year. Whether it’s Gerrard or another option who benefits from that boost is the big question.