Rangers Close in on Defensive Target as Mendy Weighs Transfer Choice
Still in search of one final defensive reinforcement, Glasgow Rangers have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with a highly sought-after centre-back, who must now decide whether to make the move.
Rangers Respond to Martin’s Early Criticism
One thing has become clear early in Russell Martin’s reign — anything less than full commitment will be called out.
The former Southampton boss was furious with his players after a lacklustre 1-1 draw against Motherwell on the opening day of the Scottish Premiership.
“We were nowhere near where we need to be, and I’m extremely disappointed and hurt,” Martin said. “They were braver and more aggressive than us.
There’s a default here at this club — when things go well, everyone’s all in, but when it’s not going well, some protect themselves. Jogging around and doing what you want is a big problem.
Some need to drop their ego. I’ll assess my tactics and accept responsibility, but this was about mentality, not tactics. Frankly, we got more than we deserved.”
Following that blunt assessment, Martin made big changes, dropping James Tavernier and Nicolas Raskin.
His gamble paid off, as Rangers produced a commanding display to beat Viktoria Plzen 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League third qualifying round tie.
The challenge now will be maintaining that level of performance, starting with Saturday evening’s clash against Dundee.
While focus remains on the pitch, the club is also busy in the transfer market, pushing to seal another key signing.
Rangers Reach Agreement with Nobel Mendy
According to transfer reporter Sacha Tavolieri, both the 49ers and Rangers have agreed personal terms with Nobel Mendy of Real Betis.
The young defender has been in high demand this summer, and his future now rests on a straight choice between Rangers and La Liga side Rayo Vallecano.
Martin is waiting on Mendy’s decision and hopes to add the promising centre-back to his squad — a move seen as a strong response to Celtic’s recent capture of Jahmai Simpson-Pusey on loan from Manchester City.
Praised as “powerful” by scout Kai Watson, Mendy would bring presence, athleticism, and quality to Ibrox.
If he opts for Glasgow, it would mark another significant step in Martin’s efforts to reshape his squad, strengthen defensively, and set a tone of accountability that matches his high standards.
With momentum from the midweek win and a transfer breakthrough potentially imminent, Rangers’ next few days could prove decisive both on and off the field.
