Rangers' forward Youssef Chermiti has been ruled out for an "extended period" after sustaining a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury during the club's recent loss to Hibernian. The 22-year-old striker collapsed in the first half after a harsh collision with the boards that line the side of the pitch at Ibrox, and he was forced to leave the stadium wearing a protective boot and a knee brace. The injury news arrived just hours after the club disclosed that a lucrative offer from Turkish side Galatasaray had been turned down. According to sources at Sky Sports News, the rejection of that bid has prompted Rangers to accelerate their search for an additional attacking option before the summer transfer window shuts.
Several names have reportedly been placed on the club's shortlist, but there are currently no formal negotiations underway for Sheffield United forward Ryan One, despite circulating rumours to the contrary. Chermiti, who has represented Portugal at under‑21 level, arrived at Ibrox from Everton last summer in a deal that could rise to £10 million.
He contributed 15 goals and five assists across all competitions in his debut season, a return that has caused the Rangers hierarchy to value him above the record fee they previously received for defender Calvin Bassey, who moved to Ajax for an initial £19.6 million in 2023. The Scottish Premiership can be streamed via NOW, and live coverage is also available on Sky Sports.
Viewers are advised to use the Chrome browser for the most accessible video player experience. In the post‑match interview after the Hibernian defeat – a game that left manager Derek McInnes winless in his first three outings in charge – the club's spokesperson expressed disappointment at the injury: "It was disheartening to see a player of his calibre go off on a stretcher. He seemed to be finding his rhythm, making runs and creating space.
He played with purpose, and his absence was felt immediately. He's now in a boot and his knee is strapped, but we are grateful he remains our player and will continue to be so." Rangers have already completed nine signings this summer, and the board expects to add three to five more before the deadline on 3 September. The next target on the list appears to be a left‑back, a position that has been left thin after Tuur Rommens suffered a groin injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks. Brentford youngster Jayden Meghoma has been mentioned as a possible solution following preliminary talks.
Other candidates are also being evaluated as the club prepares for its upcoming League Cup clash against holders St Mirren. Former Hearts defender James Penrice is on the radar, although his parent club AEK have been hesitant to approve a loan move. In addition, discussions with Aston Villa regarding right‑back Kosta Nedeljković are ongoing, and there are reports that Hugo Siquet is interested in a switch to Ibrox, though Club Brugge are reluctant to release the 24‑year‑old. The first confirmed addition among the expected new arrivals is winger Couhaib Driouech, who will become the tenth summer signing for the Glasgow side.
The 24‑year‑old is finalising his medical and paperwork ahead of a £6.5 million transfer from PSV Eindhoven. Rangers outbid interest from clubs such as Burnley and Celta Vigo to secure his services.
Driouech recorded 12 goals in 61 appearances for PSV, including three strikes in the Champions League last season, and supplied ten assists. While the club is busy reinforcing its squad, there is also movement out of Ibrox. Midfielder Mohamed Diomande is poised to leave for Turkish outfit Çorum FK, with the transfer fee estimated at around £4.5 million.
The loss of Chermiti is a significant blow to Rangers' attacking options, especially given his proven goal‑scoring record and the potential the club sees in him. An ACL injury typically requires a rehabilitation period of six to nine months, meaning he is unlikely to return before the close of the transfer window. Consequently, the management team is under pressure to identify a forward who can fill the void, at least on a temporary basis, while also planning for the long‑term future once Chermiti recovers. In the broader context, Rangers' transfer strategy this summer reflects an ambition to strengthen depth across the pitch, addressing both defensive frailties and attacking depth.
The club's willingness to invest significant sums—evident in the pursuit of players like Driouech and the earlier acquisition of Chermiti—demonstrates a commitment to competing on multiple fronts, including the Scottish Premiership, domestic cup competitions, and European tournaments. Fans will be watching closely as the transfer window draws to a close, hoping that the incoming players can make an immediate impact and that the injured striker will eventually return to full fitness, restoring the attacking firepower that has been a hallmark of Rangers' recent successes.