Rangers' forward Youssef Chermiti has suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury that will keep him out of action for a "significant period of time," the club confirmed after his collapse during Sunday's loss to Hibernian. The 22‑year‑old striker was forced off in the first half after a harsh collision with the pitch‑side advertising boards, and he was seen leaving Ibrox Stadium strapped in a boot and a knee brace. The timing of the setback could not have been worse for the Glasgow side.
Hours before the injury was made public, Rangers disclosed that they had turned down a lucrative offer from Turkish giants Galatasaray for Chermiti. The club now faces the dual challenge of rehabilitating a key attacking asset while also looking to reinforce the forward line before the summer transfer window closes on September 3. According to sources at Sky Sports News, the Rangers hierarchy have already begun to scout potential replacements. While a number of names have been floated, there is currently no active negotiation regarding a move for Ryan One, the Sheffield United striker, despite earlier speculation linking the two clubs.
The search appears to be broader, with the management reportedly evaluating a mix of permanent signings and loan deals to shore up the attack. Chermiti, who has represented Portugal at under‑21 level, arrived at Ibrox from Everton in the summer of 2023 on a contract that could rise to £10 million based on performance-related add‑ons. In his debut season he contributed 15 goals and five assists across all competitions, a return that quickly elevated his market value. Rangers' board now regard him as more valuable than the club‑record fee they received for defender Calvin Bassey, who transferred to Ajax for an initial £19.6 million in 2023.
The injury was confirmed during a post‑match interview with manager Derek McInnes, who had just endured his third winless outing in charge. McInnes expressed disappointment at seeing his key striker leave the field on a stretcher, noting that Chermiti had been playing with purpose and appeared to be in good form before the mishap.
"He’s a player with a big tag on his shirt and huge potential, and thankfully he’s still our player," McInnes said, emphasizing the club’s commitment to his recovery. Rangers have already been active in the transfer market this summer, completing nine signings and anticipating several more before the deadline. The club is particularly keen to add a left‑back to give McInnes more tactical flexibility. One candidate being examined is Brentford’s young full‑back Jayden Meghoma, who has impressed in the English Championship and could provide a long‑term solution.
Other possibilities include former Hearts left‑back James Penrice, though his parent club AEK have been hesitant to sanction a loan move. In addition to defensive reinforcements, Rangers are also monitoring a potential deal for Aston Villa right‑back Kosta Nedeljković, as well as gauging interest from Club Brugge regarding Hugo Siquet, a 24‑year‑old who has expressed a desire to join Ibrox but whose club is reluctant to let him leave. Chairman Andrew Cavenagh has publicly stated that Rangers intend to bring in three to five additional players before the window shuts.
The first confirmed arrival in this final push is 24‑year‑old winger Couhaib Driouech, who is completing his medical ahead of a £6.5 million transfer from PSV Eindhoven. Driouech has attracted interest from clubs such as Burnley and Celta Vigo, but Rangers have managed to outbid the competition.
During his spell at PSV he notched 12 goals in 61 appearances, including three in the UEFA Champions League, and supplied ten assists, showcasing a blend of pace and creativity that should complement the existing attacking options. While Driouech’s signing adds fresh impetus to the squad, the club is also preparing for the departure of midfielder Mohamed Diomande. Turkish side Corum FK are reportedly close to finalising a deal worth around £4.5 million for the Ivorian playmaker, which would free up wages and possibly generate funds for further acquisitions. The injury to Chermiti also raises questions about Rangers' immediate tactical setup.
With the striker out for months, the manager may need to rely more heavily on the likes of James Mckinnon, who has shown an eye for goal, and the newly arrived Driouech to provide width and service to the midfield. The club’s scouting department is said to be compiling a shortlist of forwards who could either join on loan or be signed permanently, ensuring that the team retains sufficient firepower for the upcoming Scottish Premiership fixtures and the League Cup clash against holders St Mirren. In summary, Youssef Chermiti’s ACL injury is a major blow to Rangers’ attacking ambitions, but the club is already mobilising resources to mitigate the loss.
By pursuing a blend of defensive signings, securing the addition of Driouech, and exploring forward options, Rangers aim to maintain momentum in the league and cup competitions while supporting Chermiti’s rehabilitation back to full fitness.