Rangers, alongside their prospective backers 49ers Enterprises, have made an initial approach to sign teenage prodigy Jesse Derry—a player already attracting major interest from some of Europe’s elite, including Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atletico Madrid.
**Rangers Pivot to Recruitment After European Exit**
Following their Europa League elimination at the hands of Athletic Club in a 2-0 loss in Bilbao, focus at Ibrox has now shifted off the pitch. Interim boss Barry Ferguson admitted uncertainty about his future, saying he plans to finish the season strongly but acknowledged that a swift decision on leadership is crucial. “We need to get back to where this club belongs,” he said, reflecting on the need for decisive action in the coming months.
Attention now turns to an impending takeover by 49ers Enterprises and a crucial summer transfer window as Rangers prepare for a reshuffle ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
**Contact Made Over In-Demand Teen Talent**
One early move on the recruitment front involves 17-year-old Crystal Palace forward Jesse Derry, who has turned down professional terms at Selhurst Park in pursuit of greater first-team opportunities. According to *TBR Football*, Rangers have reached out to initiate discussions about bringing the England youth international to Glasgow.
The competition for Derry’s signature is fierce. Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Celtic are among UK-based clubs showing strong interest, while a host of European giants—Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, Juventus, RB Leipzig, Porto, Monaco, and Eintracht Frankfurt—have all been in contact.
**A Jack-of-All-Trades in Attack**
Derry is regarded as an exceptionally adaptable forward, capable of operating across both wings, as a central attacking midfielder, or even leading the line as a striker. His playing style—characterised by flair, balance, and a low centre of gravity—has drawn comparisons to Jack Grealish, with his trademark socks-around-the-ankles look adding to the resemblance.
For Rangers, securing a player of Derry’s calibre would not only mark a major coup but also send a strong message about their ambitions under potential new ownership. His flexibility could be an asset in a squad undergoing significant transition, especially if the club can offer a clearer and quicker pathway to senior football than his other high-profile suitors.
**Glasgow Beckons?**
While the odds may favour the continental heavyweights in terms of prestige, Rangers could present an enticing proposition for Derry by pitching regular first-team minutes in a high-pressure environment, something not always guaranteed at a club like PSG or Bayern.
With the 49ers’ influence growing behind the scenes and a major rebuild on the horizon, the Ibrox club’s contact with Derry may just be the first step in a summer of bold moves aimed at rejuvenating their squad—and their ambitions.