Could Rangers make Lewis Ferguson a marquee signing?
Short overview
Rangers are reportedly interested in signing Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson, with a potential fee of £17m. The Scotland international, who has family ties to the club, would bring leadership and quality to Ibrox.
Ross McCrorie's mention of Lewis Ferguson has sparked excitement among Rangers supporters. Speaking for the first time since returning to Ibrox, McCrorie discussed his relationship with the Scotland midfielder, their time in Rangers' academy, and their spells at Aberdeen under Derek McInnes. Reports suggest Rangers are interested in a marquee deal for Ferguson, who is currently Bologna's captain.
Transfer fee and negotiations
Neither Rangers nor Bologna have commented on the reported interest, but Ferguson is said to be keen on returning to Scotland. Talks about his future are expected to resume after he returns from a post-World Cup holiday next week. Speculation indicates Bologna has set a £17m valuation on the midfielder. Paying that amount would break Rangers' transfer record of £12m, set in 2000 for Tore Andre Flo.
Ferguson's career and form
Ferguson, 26, has been Bologna's captain since 2023 and led the club to their first Coppa Italia title in 50 years last season. Despite starting fewer than half of Bologna's league games in 2024-25, he made 45 appearances across all competitions, totaling 135 over four seasons in Serie A. His performances for Scotland at the World Cup, where he played every minute of the group stage, have enhanced his reputation. He ranked highly in accurate passes, tackles, defensive contributions, and possession regains per 90 minutes.
Goalscoring and leadership
Ferguson averaged nine goals per season at Aberdeen before moving to Italy, where his goal tally has declined but he won Serie A midfielder of the year in 2023-24. His set-piece delivery and ball-winning ability have been key for Scotland. Beyond his playing skills, Ferguson would bring leadership to a Rangers squad that has lost experienced figures like James Tavernier and Jack Butland. His uncle Barry Ferguson is a legendary former Rangers captain and manager, and his father Derek played for the club from 1983 to 1990.
Scottish core at Rangers
Manager Derek McInnes has emphasized building a Scottish core. The arrivals of Lawrence Shankland (on a free transfer from Hearts) and McCrorie (for £1.5m) align with that strategy, and Ferguson would fit the same mold. Fans have long called for more leadership, and Ferguson's return could address that need.
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