Rangers have completed two significant signings on the final day of the transfer window, adding Venezuelan striker Kevin Kelsy from the Portland Timbers for a reported fee of around £9 million and securing a season‑long loan for Algerian winger Badredine Bouanani from German side Stuttgart. Both arrivals are expected to strengthen key areas of the squad and provide fresh impetus for the upcoming campaign. Kevin Kelsy arrived on a four‑year contract with an additional year‑option built into the agreement.
The 22‑year‑old forward, who has already earned six caps for the Venezuela national team, made his way to Major League Soccer after leaving Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk in January of last year. During his time with the Timbers, Kelsy proved to be a reliable goal scorer, netting 19 times and contributing five assists across 63 league appearances. His blend of physicality, pace and finishing ability caught the eye of several European clubs, and Rangers moved quickly to secure his services before the deadline. After signing, Kelsy spoke about his excitement at joining the Scottish giants: "I’ve heard a lot about the club.
Even when I was younger, I saw the team in Europe. I know what the club means to the fans. I would love to bring some joy to the fans and the club, and score goals to bring amazing moments to the team. I know we have to win all the games and play well, and I’ll be ready for this with my teammates.
I’m ready for this new chapter in my life." His comments underline a strong personal connection to Rangers' heritage and an eagerness to contribute immediately. Manager Derek McInnes welcomed the new signing, highlighting Kelsy’s attributes and mindset: "We’re really pleased to welcome Kevin to the club.
He’s an exciting player with a lot of attributes, and what really stood out in our conversations is how hungry he is to make an impact. He’ll bring real quality to an area of the pitch we have been keen to strengthen, and his arrival gives us another exciting option going forward.
Kevin has a great attitude and a real desire to improve, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can bring at Rangers." McInnes’ remarks suggest that Kelsy will be integrated quickly into the attacking unit, providing a focal point for Rangers’ forward play and adding depth alongside existing strikers. The second addition, Badredine Bouanani, completed his move after passing a medical examination.
The 21‑year‑old Algerian international joins on a loan that includes an option to purchase at the end of the season. Bouanani arrived in Glasgow after spending the previous year in Germany, having transferred from OGC Nice to Stuttgart. While at Stuttgart he recorded two goals and two assists, showing flashes of the technical skill and agility that made him a standout in Ligue 1.
Upon his unveiling, Bouanani expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead: "I am very happy to be here and excited to start. I know it’s a tough league with a lot of duels and intensity, so I will need to work. I have a lot of experience now, so I will try to put it into this league." His statement reflects an awareness of the physical demands of the Scottish Premiership and a commitment to adapt his game accordingly.
Both signings come as part of a broader recruitment drive that saw Rangers bring in fourteen new players over the summer. This matches the volume of new arrivals from the previous year, underscoring the club’s ambition to refresh the squad while maintaining competitive balance. Of the players who joined Rangers a year ago, only four remain regulars: forward Youssef Chermiti, defender Emmanuel Fernandez, midfielder Djeidi Gassama and striker Bojan Miovski.
The turnover highlights the club’s willingness to make decisive changes when required. In addition to the new arrivals, Rangers also retained midfielder Nico Raskin after rejecting a series of offers from Turkish side Besiktas. The Turkish club initially proposed a loan with an option to buy, later escalating to a permanent bid, but both proposals fell short of Rangers’ valuation, prompting the Scottish side to keep the player for the upcoming season.
The strategic signings of Kelsy and Bouanani are expected to address specific tactical needs. Kelsy’s proven goal‑scoring record in MLS provides a direct threat in the box, while his ability to hold up play and link with midfielders should complement Rangers’ possession‑based approach. Bouanani, on the other hand, adds width and creativity on the flanks, offering a left‑footed alternative that can stretch opposition defenses and deliver quality crosses into the penalty area. Fans have reacted positively to the news, with many expressing optimism that the new players will help the club challenge for the Scottish Premiership title and make a deeper run in European competitions.
The club’s hierarchy has emphasized that the signings are part of a longer‑term plan to build a squad capable of sustained success both domestically and on the continental stage. Off the pitch, the club continues to engage supporters through promotional activities, such as the ongoing Super 6 competition where participants can win a £250,000 prize. This initiative reflects Rangers’ commitment to maintaining a strong connection with its fan base while delivering exciting football on the field. Overall, the deadline‑day acquisitions of Kevin Kelsy and Badredine Bouanani signal a clear intent from Rangers to reinforce key positions, inject fresh talent, and keep pace with the evolving demands of modern football.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly the newcomers adapt to the rigors of the Scottish Premiership and whether they can deliver the performances that the club’s supporters eagerly anticipate.