“Opinion: Rangers Player’s Future in Doubt as ‘Intelligent’ Replacement Linked with Ibrox Move”

Since graduating from Auchenhowie in 2020, the 20-year-old center-back has made just 38 appearances for Rangers, with only one of those in the current Scottish Premiership season.

Earlier this month, King replaced Dujon Sterling for the final 20 minutes of a 3-3 draw against Hibernian, marking his first competitive minutes since May.

Despite injuries sidelining Neraysho Kasanwirjo, John Souttar, James Tavernier, and Sterling, manager Philippe Clement has continued to overlook the young defender.

This ongoing situation has left fans increasingly frustrated, with many believing it’s only a matter of time before King departs Ibrox permanently.

Recent transfer developments seem to reinforce this idea.

Rangers are reportedly in talks to sign Burnley defender Hjalmar Ekdal on loan, according to journalist Anel Avdic.

The Light Blues face competition from QPR, Stoke City, Sampdoria, and Empoli for the 26-year-old.

Ekdal, described as “intelligent” by former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany, has only made 19 appearances since joining from Djurgarden in January 2023 and is in need of more game time.

If Rangers secure the Swedish international, it could further diminish King’s chances of breaking into the first team.

This would be a significant setback for the young defender, whose future at Ibrox already appears uncertain.

For Rangers, signing Ekdal could address the immediate defensive crisis. However, it also highlights a broader issue at the club that requires attention.

Unfortunately for King, it seems too late for any meaningful change to salvage his position within the squad.