Lewis Ferguson, the Bologna midfielder, opened up about his long‑term career considerations after a wave of interest from Rangers surfaced during the summer months. The 27‑year‑old, who attracted attention following his performances for Scotland at the World Cup, chose to stay in Italy, where he has become a mainstay in the Serie A side, playing every minute and wearing the captain’s armband in each league match to date—an improvement on his more sporadic involvement last season.
Speaking ahead of Scotland’s Nations League clash with Switzerland, Ferguson admitted that he had taken a "long think" about his future, weighing the options on the table. "I was a little bit unsure but nothing was ever really that close to be honest," he said, indicating that despite the rumors, no concrete offer had materialised that forced an immediate decision. When asked where he sees himself going forward, Ferguson’s answer was clear: he will remain at Bologna for the foreseeable future.
"I had a long think about my future and what that was going to look like and, in the end, it was still at Bologna. I've loved every moment that I've had there, so it was about continuing that journey and see where it takes me," he explained. His words reflect a genuine appreciation for the club that has given him regular playing time, a leadership role, and the chance to develop his game in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Ferguson’s contract with Bologna still has two years left, a fact that adds a layer of stability to his situation but also keeps the door open for potential moves. He did not hide the fact that a transfer to Ibrox would be a personal ambition that never fully disappears. "It's no secret I grew up a Rangers fan. That's absolutely no secret.
My family is involved in the club, and it was an aspiration of mine, a dream of mine as a kid and that's not changed," he said, underscoring the deep-rooted connection he feels to the Scottish giants. However, Ferguson also expressed a strong sense of loyalty and respect for his current employer. "But I don't want to speak about that while I'm still a player at Bologna.
I've got too much respect for them, but in the future you never know," he added. This measured tone suggests that while the idea of playing for his boyhood club is alluring, he recognises the importance of focusing on his present responsibilities and honouring the commitment he has made to the Italian side.
He concluded with a realistic perspective: "It might happen, it might not, but it's always been something in the back of my mind." The phrasing captures both hope and pragmatism, acknowledging that football careers are often shaped by timing, form, and the ever‑changing dynamics of the transfer market. Ferguson’s situation is emblematic of many modern players who balance personal dreams with professional realities. On one hand, the pull of a childhood club can be powerful, especially when family ties and early memories are involved. On the other, the day‑to‑day experience of training, competing, and leading a team in a demanding league like Serie A provides a platform for growth that is difficult to abandon without a compelling reason.
For Bologna, retaining a player of Ferguson’s calibre is a significant boost. His leadership on the pitch, coupled with his versatility in midfield, offers the club a reliable engine that can dictate tempo, break up opposition attacks, and contribute to the offensive phase. Moreover, his experience on the international stage with Scotland adds a layer of prestige and insight that benefits younger teammates.
From Rangers’ perspective, the prospect of signing a home‑grown talent who has proven himself abroad is tempting. The club has a history of bringing back Scottish players who have honed their skills elsewhere, and Ferguson’s familiarity with the Rangers ethos would likely make his integration smoother. Yet, any potential deal would need to consider Bologna’s valuation, Ferguson’s contract length, and the player’s own willingness to uproot his life at this stage. In the broader context of Scottish football, Ferguson’s comments highlight the ongoing dialogue about retaining talent within the domestic league versus allowing players to flourish abroad.
While the Scottish Premiership offers passionate support and historic clubs, the financial and competitive pull of leagues like Serie A can be decisive for players seeking to test themselves at higher levels. As the Nations League fixture against Switzerland approaches, all eyes will be on Ferguson’s performance for Scotland. A strong showing could reignite interest from multiple clubs, including Rangers, and perhaps accelerate any future negotiations.
Until then, his focus remains on contributing to Bologna’s campaign, leading by example, and keeping the dream of an Ibrox return alive as a quiet, persistent thought. Regardless of how the next few months unfold, Ferguson’s honesty about his aspirations and his commitment to his current team paint a picture of a professional who respects both his past and his present, while remaining open to the possibilities that the future may hold.