Rangers' forward Youssef Chermiti has been ruled out for an "extended period" after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury during Sunday's loss to Hibernian. The 22‑year‑old striker collapsed in the first half after a collision with the side‑line boards, and was seen leaving Ibrox Stadium wearing a boot and a knee brace. The injury news broke just hours after the club disclosed that a substantial offer from Turkish side Galatasaray for Chermiti had been turned down.
According to sources at Sky Sports News, Rangers are now actively scouting for an additional attacking option as the summer transfer window draws to a close, following the blow to their frontline. While a number of potential signings are under consideration, reports suggest that there are currently no formal discussions regarding a move for Ryan One, the Sheffield United forward, despite earlier speculation linking the two clubs. Chermiti, who has represented Portugal at under‑21 level, arrived at Ibrox from Everton in the summer of last year for a fee that could rise to £10 million.
In his debut season he contributed 15 goals and five assists across all competitions, a return that has prompted Rangers' hierarchy to value him even higher than the club‑record transfer fee they 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 matches are also broadcast on Sky Sports. Viewers are advised to use the Chrome browser for the best video experience.
After the defeat to Hibernian – which left manager Derek McInnes winless in his first three games in charge – the coach spoke about Chermiti's injury: "I'm disappointed for the lad, having to leave on a stretcher. He was looking bright, making runs and creating space. He played with purpose and his absence was felt, but now he's out with a boot and a knee brace. It's no surprise he's a player with a high price tag and great potential, but we're glad he's still our player and will remain so." Rangers have already completed nine signings this summer, and the tally is expected to rise in the coming days.
The club is evaluating several targets to bolster the squad, including a left‑back to give manager McInnes more depth. This comes after a groin injury to defender Tuur Rommens, which is projected to keep him sidelined for several weeks.
One name that has emerged is Brentford's young full‑back Jayden Meghoma, who has been in talks with the club. Other candidates are also on the radar as Rangers prepare for their upcoming League Cup clash against holders St Mirren.
Former Hearts left‑back James Penrice is reportedly on the shortlist, although his parent club AEK have been hesitant to approve a loan move. Negotiations are also ongoing with Aston Villa regarding the possible acquisition of right‑back Kosta Nedeljković. In addition, Belgian winger Hugo Siquet has expressed interest in joining Ibrox, but Club Brugge appear reluctant to release the 24‑year‑old. Chairman Andrew Cavenagh has confirmed that Rangers intend to add between three and five more players before the Scottish transfer window closes on September 3.
The first of these new arrivals is expected to be winger Couhaib Driouech, who will become the club's tenth summer signing. The 24‑year‑old is currently undergoing a medical and finalising paperwork for a £6.5 million transfer from PSV Eindhoven.
Rangers have fended off interest from several clubs, including Burnley and Celta Vigo, to secure Driouech's services. During his time at PSV, the winger made 61 appearances, netting 12 goals – three of which came in the Champions League – and providing ten assists. Meanwhile, midfielder Mohamed Diomande is set to depart the club, with Turkish side Çorum FK reportedly close to finalising a deal worth around £4.5 million.
The loss of Chermiti is a significant setback for Rangers, who will now have to rely on their existing attacking options and the incoming signings to maintain momentum in the Scottish Premiership. The club's recruitment strategy appears focused on adding depth across the spine of the team, addressing both defensive and offensive needs as the season progresses. With the transfer window nearing its deadline, the next few weeks will be crucial for McInnes and his staff to assemble a squad capable of challenging for titles while coping with the injury blow to one of their most promising forwards.