adminRangers are closing in on a major piece of business under new manager Derek McInnes, with former academy graduate Ross McCrorie set to return to Ibrox from Bristol City.
The Scotland international has reportedly agreed a long-term contract with the Glasgow giants, with the move expected to strengthen McInnes’ defensive options ahead of the new Scottish Premiership campaign.
McCrorie, 28, came through the Rangers academy and made more than 50 appearances for the first team before leaving the club for Aberdeen in search of regular senior football. His time at Pittodrie saw him work under McInnes, who played an important role in his development.
The defender later moved to Bristol City, where his performances helped him earn recognition at international level and a place in Scotland’s squad for the European Championship.
Rangers are understood to have beaten competition from several English clubs to secure McCrorie’s return. The initial transfer fee is reportedly around £900,000, with potential add-ons capable of increasing the overall value of the deal.
His arrival follows the signing of former Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, making McCrorie the club’s second addition of the summer transfer window. Rangers are looking to rebuild after finishing third last season and falling short in their domestic campaign.
One of McCrorie’s biggest strengths is his versatility. Although he has operated mainly at right-back in recent seasons, he can also play elsewhere across the defence and has experience in midfield.
That flexibility could prove valuable for McInnes as he attempts to reshape the Rangers squad and improve the team’s depth across several positions.
The return of McCrorie also represents a significant change in direction for the player. Having left Ibrox as a young defender, he now returns with considerably more experience and international recognition.
McInnes has made it clear that Rangers want to focus their recruitment on realistic targets rather than spending time pursuing players who are unlikely to join the club.
The new manager has stressed the importance of affordability and accessibility when identifying potential signings, suggesting that the club’s recruitment strategy will prioritise players who can make an immediate contribution.
McCrorie appears to fit that profile perfectly. He knows the club, understands the expectations surrounding Rangers and already has a working relationship with McInnes.
For Rangers supporters, his return could therefore prove to be an important early step in the club’s attempt to close the gap at the top of Scottish football.
With the summer transfer window still providing McInnes with opportunities to strengthen his squad, McCrorie’s arrival may only be the beginning of a busy rebuilding process at Ibrox.
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