Rangers Eye European Glory as Ferguson Targets Europa League Semi-Final Spot
All focus at Ibrox is on European competition this week, with Barry Ferguson aiming to guide Rangers into the Europa League semi-finals. A goalless draw against Athletic Bilbao in the first leg has left the tie finely poised ahead of Thursday’s decisive return fixture in Spain – arguably the club’s toughest challenge this season.
Regardless of how far Ferguson takes the team in Europe, he won’t be at the helm next season. A new era is set to begin this summer, with a permanent manager expected to be appointed in the coming months.
Sporting director Nils Koppen already appears to be planning for the future, particularly with the club needing to secure Champions League qualification to strengthen its financial position.
Rangers’ transfer strategy will need to be efficient. With limited room for error following three underwhelming summer windows, the club can’t afford any expensive missteps. The focus will likely shift toward free agents and promising young talents available for modest fees – similar to last year’s signings of Lyall Cameron and Hamza Igamane.
Could Kwame Poku Be Next?
One such name attracting attention is Peterborough United winger Kwame Poku. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Rangers are among several clubs monitoring the 23-year-old, whose contract expires this summer – potentially making him a bargain acquisition.
Bailey noted: “His representatives are speaking with several clubs, including Birmingham, Crystal Palace, Millwall, Luton, and Norwich. However, Rangers are the real threat – they’ve scouted him extensively, although negotiations are somewhat complicated by the club’s ownership changes and the search for a new manager.”
A move to Rangers could be the most attractive option for Poku, offering the chance to compete for trophies and play in Europe. Given that only a small compensation fee would be required, his signing could prove to be a shrewd investment.
Why Rangers Are Interested
With Vaclav Cerny set to return to his parent club following a strong loan spell, Rangers will need to fill a significant void on the right wing. Poku seems up to the task, having delivered 12 goals and 10 assists in 26 appearances for Peterborough this season.
He’s also created nine big chances, averages 1.3 key passes, and completes 1.9 successful dribbles per game in League One – impressive numbers that suggest he could thrive in the Scottish Premiership.
Poku vs. Cerny: A Statistical Comparison (Domestic Leagues)
(Stats via Sofascore)
Poku has made just one appearance for Ghana back in 2021, but a move to a higher-profile league could help reignite his international prospects. Currently valued at €1.5m (£1.3m) by Transfermarkt, that figure could climb rapidly if he performs in either Scotland or England.
Igamane: Rangers’ Own Rising Star
While Poku represents a promising addition, Rangers already have a gem in Hamza Igamane. The 22-year-old forward has become a fan favorite, thanks to his standout performances – particularly in Europe.
He netted four goals and one assist during the Europa League group stage, including a brace against Nice and a goal versus Tottenham. With an impressive strike rate of one goal every 110 minutes in Europe and ten Premiership goals – including a dramatic winner against Celtic – Igamane has emerged as a key figure at Ibrox.
Having joined from AS FAR for just £1.7m last summer, Igamane’s value has more than doubled to €4m (£3.5m), according to Transfermarkt. His explosive form has caught the eye of scouts, with Everton reportedly considering a summer move.
Analyst Ben Mattinson praised Igamane’s flair and unpredictability, calling him “the type of player to try outrageous moves just because.”
What’s Next for Igamane?
As his stock continues to rise, Rangers may face a dilemma this summer: cash in on Igamane or retain him to further his development – potentially raising his value even more.
Whichever path the new manager takes, fans will be eager to see Igamane continue his excellent form during the season’s closing stages.
Worth 2x more than Poku: Rangers have struck gold on “outrageous” star
