Rangers have officially secured the services of winger Daisuke Yokoi, who arrives from German side Hannover 96. The 26‑year‑old Japanese forward has completed a move to Ibrox for a base fee of £2.75 million, with additional performance‑related add‑ons built into the agreement. He has agreed to a three‑year contract that also contains an optional extra year, giving the club flexibility to retain him for a fourth season if both parties wish.
Yokoi arrived in Scotland having enjoyed a productive campaign in Germany's 2. Bundesliga, where he found the net five times and set up four more goals for his teammates. His contributions earned him a spot in Rangers' Europa League roster for the upcoming third‑round qualifying tie against Jagiellonia Białystok, with the first leg scheduled for Thursday.
The new signing marks Rangers' ninth addition to the squad during the current summer window, following the arrivals of Ivor Pandur, Vanja Dragojević, Olwethu Makhanya, Ross McCrorie, Dan Neil, Lawrence Shankland, Cammy Devlin and Ben Godfrey. Speaking after putting pen to paper, Yokoi expressed his enthusiasm: "I’m thrilled to become a Ranger. This club boasts a massive history, devoted supporters and lofty ambitions, so signing here is a proud moment for me. My goal is to help the side achieve success this season and to create some special memories together.
I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, the coaching staff and to get started on the pitch." Yokoi’s football journey began in his native Tokyo, where he first showcased his talent before moving abroad at the age of 18. He initially joined the youth setup at FSV Frankfurt, later progressing to the academy of FC Carl Zeiss Jena, where he honed the technical and tactical attributes that would define his playing style. After his formative years in Germany, he ventured to the Baltic region in 2021, signing for Latvian outfit Valmiera. Yokoi played a pivotal role in the club's historic 2022 campaign, contributing eight goals and ten assists as Valmiera clinched their maiden league championship.
His performances attracted interest from clubs across Europe, leading to a stint in Poland with Górnik Zabrze. In 2024 he transferred to Belgian side Gent, but soon found himself back in Germany on loan with Hannover 96. The loan spell proved fruitful, prompting Hannover to make the move permanent for the following season, where he continued to demonstrate his ability to influence games from the wing. Rangers' manager Derek McInnes welcomed the addition, stating: "We are delighted to bring Daisuke to the club.
He’s a player we have been monitoring for some time, and his skill set will undoubtedly add depth to our attacking options. At 26, he has amassed valuable experience across several European leagues. He is quick, direct and possesses a knack for creating chances in the final third of the pitch.
We are committed to strengthening the squad in key areas, and I look forward to integrating Daisuke into our system and seeing what he can achieve with the Rangers." Yokoi’s arrival comes at a crucial juncture for Rangers, who are looking to reinforce their offensive firepower ahead of a demanding schedule that includes domestic league fixtures, cup competitions and a European campaign. His versatility on the flank, ability to cut inside and deliver precise crosses, as well as his proven goal‑scoring record, are expected to complement the existing attacking unit, which already features prolific forwards such as Lawrence Shankland.
Beyond his on‑field attributes, Yokoi brings a multicultural perspective, having played in Germany, Latvia, Poland and Belgium. This breadth of experience is anticipated to aid his adaptation to the Scottish Premiership’s physical style and intense atmosphere at Ibrox.
Fans can also look forward to his flair and work ethic, traits that have earned him praise from former coaches and teammates alike. In addition to the sporting aspects, Rangers have highlighted the commercial and community impact of signing a player of Yokoi’s profile. As a Japanese international, his presence is likely to boost the club’s visibility in Asia, attract new supporters and open avenues for partnerships and sponsorships in the region. The club’s official channels have already begun promoting Yokoi’s debut, with highlights and interviews slated for release across Rangers’ social media platforms.
Supporters are encouraged to stream the upcoming Scottish Premiership matches via NOW or catch live action on Sky Sports, where Rangers’ fixtures will be broadcast throughout the season. Looking ahead, Yokoi’s first test will be the Europa League qualifier against Jagiellonia Białystok. The match offers an early opportunity for him to showcase his abilities on the European stage and to start building the "special memories" he referenced in his introductory remarks. If he can replicate the form that earned him a place in the squad, Rangers’ fans can anticipate an exciting new chapter filled with goals, assists and moments that will be remembered for years to come.
For those interested in engaging with the club beyond the pitch, Rangers continue to run promotional activities, including the Super 6 competition where participants can win a share of a £250,000 prize pool. All entries are free, offering fans an additional way to connect with the team as they embark on this new season.