“Rangers SHOCK EXIT: £5M ‘Flop’ Star DUMPED from Ibrox in JAW-DROPPING Deal – Gassama’s DREAM Move Awaits!”
Glasgow Rangers head coach Russell Martin frustrated sections of the fanbase after commenting he was “happy” not to lose against Dundee at Ibrox on Saturday.
While his remarks were understandable — the Light Blues had been 1-0 down with ten men until James Tavernier’s 92nd-minute penalty secured a draw — many supporters were disappointed to hear such satisfaction following a 1-1 result in the first home league game, especially after also drawing with Motherwell on opening day.
Despite promising Champions League qualifier performances, Rangers still require significant improvement to challenge for the Scottish Premiership title.
Strengthening the squad before the summer transfer deadline remains a priority, with recent recruitment already showing promise.
One standout acquisition is Djeidi Gassama, signed for £2.2m from Sheffield Wednesday to boost the flank options.
The 21-year-old French winger has quickly become a fan favourite thanks to his pace, dribbling, and productivity — netting four goals in five appearances, all in Champions League qualifiers.
Notably, his run won the penalty that salvaged the Dundee draw. Martin’s task now is to maximise Gassama’s impact, ensuring he receives the ball in dangerous positions and has the right support on the left side.
That left-side partnership could be reshaped soon. Reports from Brazil claim Palmeiras are in talks with Rangers to sign 21-year-old left-back Jefte, who could replace Vander Lan.
The Gers reportedly value him at around £5m, with unnamed English clubs also monitoring the situation.
Jefte’s departure might be beneficial for Gassama’s development. Martin has shown reluctance to use the Brazilian regularly, preferring right-footed Max Aarons at left-back in the first three games.
Criticised last season for being “suspect defensively,” Jefte’s attacking contributions have also been limited — creating just four ‘big chances’ in 33 Premiership appearances and struggling to deliver quality crosses or dribbles this term.
For comparison, in the 2020/21 campaign, Borna Barisic created 14 ‘big chances’ from left-back, with Ryan Kent thriving ahead of him (12 goals, 11 assists).
Like Kent, Gassama is a right-footer who prefers cutting inside, meaning he would benefit from a Barisic-style full-back who overlaps, draws defenders, and opens space.
Currently, opposition defences face minimal threat from Jefte, making Gassama easier to contain.
Selling Jefte could allow Rangers to recruit a more attack-minded left-back whose style complements Gassama’s game.
Such a move could enhance the winger’s effectiveness in the Premiership, offering Rangers a more dynamic and dangerous left side — crucial in their bid to close the gap in the title race.
