Newcastle Strike Early to Snatch Rangers Sensation Alfie Hutchison
Russell Martin, the newly appointed manager of Rangers, is already facing a hectic summer window as he begins shaping his vision for the Glasgow giants. With sweeping changes underway at Ibrox, a number of young and senior players are heading for the exit — including one of the club’s brightest young prospects.
Newcastle United have reportedly won the race to sign 16-year-old winger Alfie Hutchison, a much sought-after talent who has been attracting attention across England. As per the Rangers Review on 29 June, Hutchison is now set to join the Magpies, leaving Rangers with a fee for their youth product.
Hutchison only joined the Ibrox ranks in 2024 from Hearts, but his impressive rise has already seen him earn a move south of the border to St James’ Park. Alongside him, another promising youngster, Oliver Goodbrand, will also be making the switch to Newcastle, marking a double blow to Rangers’ youth setup.
Russell Martin Faces Summer Shake-Up at Rangers
Behind the scenes at Ibrox, Russell Martin, who was brought in by the club’s new ownership, is pressing ahead with a full squad rebuild. The former boss of Milton Keynes Dons, Swansea City, and Southampton has laid out his priorities to the Rangers board, and the transfer activity is beginning to reflect that vision.
While the loss of Hutchison and Goodbrand represents a setback for the academy, Rangers are simultaneously looking to bring in youthful reinforcements. The club is reportedly on the verge of signing Zebedee Lawson, a promising attacker from Brighton, who will bolster the Under-19 side.
Martin’s challenge is not just in reshaping the youth team — he’s also under immense pressure to strengthen the first team ahead of a critical UEFA Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos scheduled for late July.
European Ambitions Drive Urgent Transfer Strategy
Rangers’ 2024/25 campaign showed glimpses of progress but left fans frustrated due to persistent weaknesses at both ends of the pitch. With the Champions League qualifiers looming, the need for top-quality reinforcements has become urgent.
To realistically compete with Panathinaikos and beyond, Rangers must bring in at least three impactful first-team players. Ideally, the team needs a dominant centre-back, a playmaking midfielder, and a clinical striker — each vital to match the Greek side’s quality and to progress in Europe.
The club’s financial muscle has been boosted thanks to a £20million investment from the 49ers, whose global brand is backing Rangers’ ambitious vision. The onus is now on Martin and the board to act quickly and decisively in the transfer market.
Conor Coady Emerges as Rangers’ Defensive Priority
One name that continues to circulate around Ibrox is Conor Coady of Leicester City. Rangers are reportedly eyeing a deal for the experienced defender, whose leadership and defensive acumen could bring much-needed balance to the squad.
Coady’s arrival would not only solidify the backline but also relieve the pressure on long-time club servant James Tavernier, who has been forced to shoulder both defensive and leadership duties week in and week out. Coady’s presence would allow for squad rotation while maintaining standards at the back.
This transfer, if completed swiftly, could set the tone for a summer that aims to elevate Rangers from domestic contenders to genuine European challengers.
Hamza Igamane Expected to Leave Amid Restructuring
Another departure on the cards is that of Hamza Igamane, who is also tipped to exit Ibrox in the current window. Though his destination remains unclear, the Moroccan forward is part of the broader squad reshuffle being overseen by Martin.
With young talent like Hutchison and Goodbrand departing and the likes of Lawson arriving, it’s evident that Martin is not only planning for immediate results but is also investing in the club’s future. His blueprint appears to balance youth development with acquiring seasoned professionals to hit the ground running in Europe and the Scottish Premiership.
In summary, the winds of change are sweeping through Ibrox as Russell Martin takes control of a Rangers squad in flux. The loss of Alfie Hutchison, Oliver Goodbrand, and potentially Hamza Igamane signals the start of a dramatic overhaul. But with signings like Zebedee Lawson incoming and targets such as Conor Coady in the pipeline, Martin’s reign is already taking shape with high stakes ahead. The coming weeks could define Rangers’ trajectory both at home and on the European stage.
