Rangers’ forward Youssef Chermiti has been ruled out for "a significant period of time" after sustaining a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the team’s recent loss to Hibernian. The 22‑year‑old striker collapsed in the first half after a collision with the perimeter boards at Ibrox and was forced to leave the pitch wearing a protective boot and a knee brace.
The injury news broke just hours after Rangers publicly rejected a lucrative offer for Chermiti from Turkish giants Galatasaray. According to sources at Sky Sports News, the club is now actively exploring the market for a replacement forward as the summer transfer window draws to a close. While a number of names have been floated, there are currently no formal negotiations underway for Sheffield United’s Ryan One, despite earlier speculation linking the two parties.
Chermiti, who has represented Portugal at under‑21 level, arrived at Ibrox from Everton in the summer of 2023 on a deal that could rise to £10 million based on performance-related add‑ons. In his debut season with the Glasgow side he found the net 15 times and supplied five assists across all competitions, a return that has seen Rangers’ hierarchy place a valuation on him that exceeds the club‑record fee they received for defender Calvin Bassey, who transferred to Ajax for an initial £19.6 million in 2023. In the aftermath of the Hibernian defeat, which also marked manager Derek McInnes’s third winless game in charge, the Rangers boss commented on Chermiti’s condition: "I’m disappointed to see a big player having to leave on a stretcher. He looked sharp, creating space and running into gaps.
He played with purpose, and his absence was felt. He’s out with a boot and a brace on his knee. It’s no surprise that a player of his calibre carries a hefty price tag and high potential – thankfully he remains our player and will continue to be so." The setback comes as Rangers have already completed nine signings this summer and are expected to add several more before the Scottish transfer deadline on 3 September. The club is currently assessing a range of targets, with particular interest in bolstering the left‑back position following a groin injury to Tuur Rommens that is projected to keep him sidelined for several weeks.
Brentford’s academy prospect Jayden Meghoma has been mentioned as a potential option after preliminary talks, though other candidates remain under consideration. Rangers are also looking to reinforce the squad ahead of the upcoming League Cup tie against defending champions St Mirren.
Former Hearts left‑back James Penrice has appeared on the shortlist, but his parent club AEK have been reluctant to sanction a loan move. Simultaneously, discussions are reportedly ongoing with Aston Villa regarding the acquisition of right‑back Kosta Nedeljković. In addition, Belgian winger Hugo Siquet has expressed interest in a move to Ibrox, but Club Brugge appear hesitant to release the 24‑year‑old. Club chairman Andrew Cavenagh has confirmed that Rangers intend to bring in three to five additional players before the window shuts.
The first confirmed arrival in this final wave is 24‑year‑old winger Couhaib Driouech, who is set to become the club’s tenth summer signing. Driouech is currently completing his medical and paperwork ahead of a £6.5 million transfer from PSV Eindhoven. Rangers overcame stiff competition from clubs such as Burnley and Celta Vigo to secure his services.
During his spell at PSV, Driouech recorded 12 goals in 61 appearances, including three strikes in the Champions League last season, and contributed ten assists. While the club is busy reinforcing its ranks, there is also movement on the outgoing side. Midfielder Mohamed Diomande is expected to depart for Turkish side Çorum FK, with the transfer fee reported to be around £4.5 million.
This exit, combined with the anticipated arrivals, suggests a significant reshaping of the squad as Rangers aim to maintain momentum in the Scottish Premiership and European competitions despite the loss of Chermiti. The ACL injury is a serious setback for any footballer, often requiring surgical reconstruction followed by a rehabilitation period that can range from six to nine months, depending on the severity and the individual’s response to therapy. Rangers’ medical team will undoubtedly work closely with Chermiti to ensure a full and safe recovery, but the club must now contend with a reduced attacking option for the foreseeable future. In summary, Youssef Chermiti’s ACL tear sidelines a promising young talent for an extended duration, prompting Rangers to intensify their search for a forward replacement while also addressing other positional needs.
The club’s transfer activity in the closing weeks of the window reflects a proactive approach to mitigating the impact of injuries and maintaining competitiveness across all fronts. The upcoming fixtures, including the League Cup clash with St Mirren, will test the depth of the squad as new signings integrate and the team adapts to the absence of Chermiti.