Rangers Transfer Priority Revealed By Derek McInnes: Should They Really Focus On Attack?

Derek McInnes, the Rangers manager, has laid out the club's transfer priorities ahead of the UEFA Conference League first-leg tie against Jablonec. The defensive position has been fortified with full-backs Kosta Nedeljkovic and James Penrice, but the focus now shifts to the attacking end of the pitch. McInnes is adamant that securing a quality forward is the only pressing transfer target, confirming that a specific number nine is being actively pursued.

While he acknowledges that a central defender could be considered as cover, his priorities are clearly set on the top end of the pitch. Midfielder Nico Raskin, despite exit rumors, remains in the squad, while captain Lawrence Shankland faces reality but is still valued for his goal-scoring ability. Rangers' attacking struggles have become glaringly obvious, especially following the injury to Chermiti, which has left the team without a dynamic striker.

The manager accepts that one player cannot carry the entire attacking burden, but he insists that a winger capable of stretching low-block defenses and creating chances for a striker is essential. Although Brighton rejected Rangers' bid for 21-year-old Amario Cozier-Duberry, his profile fits perfectly with McInnes' requirements – a direct threat who can change games with his dribbling, ball-carrying, and 1v1 skills.

Adding a redundant center-half would solve nothing, according to McInnes. If the board fails to back him in the forward areas before the Scottish transfer window closes on September 3, Rangers risk falling short domestically and handing Celtic a title race that they shouldn't be facing this early in the season.