Rangers may be preparing to switch Cyriel Dessers for a forward more suited to the high-intensity style Russell Martin is looking to implement. The new era under Martin, alongside Director of Football Kevin Thelwell and Technical Director Dan Purdy, will demand a striker capable of pressing aggressively, linking play in the final third, and winning fouls to help Rangers transition quickly and effectively.
That style has rarely looked natural for Dessers, whose strengths lie elsewhere.
Dessers: Goals vs Fit
There’s no denying Dessers has delivered goals – 51 since arriving at Ibrox – and his recent return to Nigeria’s national team, including a goal against Ghana, is a reminder of his quality in the box.
But Rangers fans have been divided. For all his goals, the missed chances, loose touches and awkward link-up play have caused frustration. And while many acknowledge his work ethic and professionalism, he’s not the natural fit for the pressing system Martin is likely to deploy.
Still, replacing that volume of goals won’t be easy. That’s why Rangers must be measured in their approach.
Greek Interest & A Realistic Exit Fee
Reports in Greece and Belgium suggest AEK Athens and Olympiacos are interested in signing Dessers. For the first time in years, Rangers are not under pressure to sell. The financial backing from the 49ers group means the club can negotiate from a position of strength.
We believe an offer in the region of £4 million would be a fair starting point. Dessers turns 31 later this year and is arguably at his peak market value. If Rangers can recoup most of the £4.5m they spent – or better yet, secure a profit – it would make strategic sense to move him on.
Dessers himself has said he has “unfinished business” at Rangers and wants to win more trophies, but even he acknowledged the interest from Greece when asked by Belgian outlet Voetbalkrant recently. For now, he’s enjoying his summer — and celebrated his wedding over the weekend to long-term partner Rosalie.
Dor Turgeman to Rangers Rumour
Within the last 24 hours, Rangers are reported to have submitted a £4 million bid for Dor Turgeman, the highly-rated striker from Maccabi Tel Aviv. That offer has been rejected, with the Israeli club demanding more for their top scorer. But the 21-year-old is said to be keen on the move and sees Rangers as a perfect next step to elevate his profile in Europe.
Turgeman bagged 20 goals and 6 assists in 44 matches last season and looks a tailor-made fit for the modern game.
What Turgeman Could Bring To Rangers
Turgeman offers a profile that ticks many of the boxes Rangers are prioritising this summer:
Pace & Power: At 1.86m and 77kg, he’s a strong, athletic striker who can run at defenders and hold up play.
Two-footed: Primarily right-footed but capable with his left – making him a versatile threat in front of goal.
Technically sharp: First touch, dribbling, and ball control are standout traits, enabling him to operate in tight spaces and beat defenders 1-v-1.
Finishing: Composed in the box and capable of shooting from range. He’s also a serious threat in the air thanks to his leap and heading ability.
Link-up play & vision: His short passing and awareness help bring midfielders into the game.
Intelligent movement: Finds pockets of space, stretches defences, and creates angles — ideal for a side that dominates possession.
Pressing: While his overall work rate is still maturing, he shows intensity and physical bravery when pressing.
Why Rangers Fits Russell Martin’s Rangers
Turgeman looks like the type of striker who could thrive under Russell Martin. His versatility, aggression off the ball, and ability to link play would offer Rangers a more dynamic forward line.
Compared to Dessers, he’s:
- Quicker
- More suited to pressing from the front
- Stronger in link-up and off-the-ball movement
It’s clear why the recruitment team are pushing hard for him.
Our Verdict
This is a smart, ambitious target. If Rangers can get the deal done, it would represent a shift toward a more modern, mobile attack — replacing a player who, despite his goal return, never fully convinced large sections of the support.
With financial strength behind them, Rangers can now make football-first decisions. Switching Dessers for Turgeman might just be the first big statement of the Russell Martin era.
What to keep reading more? Check out some of our other latest articles!
- Hot and Hostile: Rangers Draw Panathinaikos in Summer Showdown
- Rangers Hit Back at SFA Notice with Firm, Measured Response
- Rangers Eye Max Aarons Loan – But Deal Still Needs Work
- Harry Darling to Rangers? Why This One Feels Real
- Issame Charai Leaves Rangers as Russell Martin Assembles New Backroom Team
💙 Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for updates, live reactions, and more fan coverage.
📲 Don’t forget to like and share! #Rangers #RangersFC #ScottishPremiership
