Move over James Tavernier; Rangers could sign their new free-kick master for just £1m this summer

Robin Propper delivered his best performance in a Rangers shirt against Celtic, capping off a dominant display with the second goal in a commanding 3-0 victory just after the New Year.

Later that month, Clinton Nsiala provided an assist for Leon Balogun’s header as Philippe Clement’s team comfortably swept past Aberdeen.

Nsiala then got off the mark for Rangers with a goal against Fraserburgh in the Scottish Cup, while Propper added to his tally in a victory over Dundee United.

Meanwhile, John Souttar made a memorable return to league action, playing a key role in the 4-0 thrashing of Ross County.

Interestingly, even the defenders linked with a move to Ibrox seem to be making an impression.

During the January transfer window, reports emerged that Rangers had been monitoring Jamaican center-back Richard King.

According to Rangers News, his current club, Cavalier FC, was seeking a transfer fee of around £1 million.

With Balogun’s future uncertain and Propper yet to establish himself consistently, Rangers could look to strengthen their defensive options in the summer transfer window.

Richard King Fits Nils Koppen’s Profile for a Rangers Signing

King’s valuation, age, and playing style align perfectly with the recruitment philosophy of Rangers’ technical director, Nils Koppen.

The club has recently targeted young, promising talents with high resale potential—such as Hamza Igamane, Jefte, Mohamed Diomande, Connor Barron, and Lyall Cameron—and King appears to fit that mold.

Rangers typically dominate possession in domestic matches, facing opponents who often sit deep in a low-block.

As a result, their central defenders must be adept at breaking lines and initiating attacks from deep positions.

Clinton Nsiala’s passing range—recently compared to Virgil van Dijk’s by Ross McCausland—was a key factor in Rangers’ decision to sign him last summer.

Similarly, King has demonstrated an ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back.

During Jamaica’s CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final against the USA in November, King came off the bench and immediately showcased his passing ability.

The highlight of his cameo was a stunning Trivela pass that put a teammate through on goal.

Beyond that, King displayed his composure and technical quality, using a deft chip to escape a tight situation and executing a few impressive crossfield passes.

At times, he even drifted wide to the touchline, creating better angles for progression.

Jamaican football analyst Rayon Nelson has spoken highly of King’s ability, emphasizing his composed style of play:

“You can see the talent. He doesn’t seem like the type of player who will dive into reckless challenges. He’s a very composed footballer.

“Richard King looks like he has another level to reach. His ball control, simple passing, and ability to navigate tight situations show real promise.

“Of course, there are aspects of his game that need refining—his confidence, for instance—but I don’t see him as a player who will remain average. He has the potential to elevate his game significantly.”

Richard King Scores Stunning Free-Kick for Cavalier FC

King’s reputation continues to grow, helped by his knack for scoring eye-catching goals.

The 20-cap international netted his third goal of the Jamaican Premier League season in spectacular fashion over the weekend.

From around 25 yards out, King curled a beautiful free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, sealing a 3-0 win for Cavalier FC against Molynes United.

If Rangers decide to step up their interest in the coming months, King could find himself not only competing with Souttar and Nsiala for a spot in Clement’s starting XI but also challenging James Tavernier—the club’s long-established set-piece specialist—for free-kick duties.