The January transfer window is already a third of the way through, and Rangers fans are growing increasingly frustrated as they await their first signing of 2025.
Philippe Clement, speaking after Rangers’ struggles away to Dundee on Thursday night, remained tight-lipped about potential deals. However, the situation could change quickly if Cyriel Dessers departs in the coming days.
Reports suggest Rangers have opened discussions with clubs interested in Dessers, who was signed for £4.5 million from Cremonese. Interest from Italy and France has been reported, and his departure could provide a financial boost to Clement’s transfer budget.
While a new center-forward may be needed to replace Dessers, Rangers are more urgently looking to strengthen their defense. At Dens Park, Clement was again without John Souttar, Leon Balogun, Dujon Sterling, and Neraysho Kasanwirjo. This forced him to give Clinton Nsiala his Premiership debut, and the former AC Milan prospect stood out on what was otherwise another disappointing night.
Ryan Porteous Linked to Rangers
One potential defensive target is Scotland international Ryan Porteous. Former Rangers captain Craig Moore has suggested Porteous as a viable option, despite Watford manager Tom Cleverley downplaying any speculation. Cleverley dismissed claims of Porteous being unsettled at Vicarage Road, insisting the defender remains committed and available for selection.
Watford reportedly signed Porteous for around £500,000 from Hibernian in 2023. At 25 years old, the Edinburgh-born defender would be a low-risk acquisition, capable of slotting straight into Clement’s starting XI with minimal adjustment.
Speaking after Rangers fell 15 points behind Celtic in the Premiership table, Clement reiterated that questions about the club’s transfer strategy should be directed to CEO Patrick Stewart in the coming days.
“We have daily discussions about January, next season, and everything else,” Clement stated, emphasizing the ongoing communication about potential moves.
Craig Moore Endorses Porteous Move
Ahead of Rangers’ home match against St. Johnstone this weekend—where they hope to improve on a dismal away record of just three wins in 11 games—Moore outlined why Porteous could be a smart signing.
“He knows the domestic game inside out,” Moore said on the Go Radio Football Show. “If he’s not playing regularly at Watford, he’s certainly worth considering. He wouldn’t face anything unfamiliar here, and his physicality and experience make him a solid option.”
With Rangers’ defensive struggles and limited transfer activity so far, Porteous could provide a timely boost to Clement’s squad as they look to steady their season.
