Glasgow Rangers have already played two matches in the 2024/25 campaign, and it seems supporters may need to be patient with Philippe Clement. The Belgian manager has attempted to overhaul the squad, with several players moving on and new ones arriving, but it has largely been the same players from last season featuring in the first two matches. Connor Barron, who arrived from Aberdeen, is the only new player to have started in both games against Hearts and Dynamo Kyiv.
Jefte came off the bench at halftime on Tuesday night, and Wolfsburg loanee Vaclav Cerny assisted Cyriel Dessers’ last-minute equalizer in the Champions League qualifier. With the summer transfer window still open, Rangers could make further additions to replace underperforming players.
One player who needs to be replaced and dropped from the starting XI is attacking midfielder Tom Lawrence, who continues to underwhelm. The Welsh international could be a decent bench option but hasn’t shown enough to justify a regular starting position. With Ianis Hagi and Alex Lowry reportedly free to leave and Todd Cantwell handing in two transfer requests, Lawrence remains the only senior attacking midfielder available. This is concerning given his lack of form last season.
Lawrence’s stats from last season—23 appearances, two goals, and three assists—indicate a lack of impact. This season, he has started both games against Hearts and Dynamo Kyiv, failing to score or assist, and created just one chance in the league. At 30, Lawrence is unlikely to improve significantly, making it imperative for Rangers to sign a new attacking midfielder.
Rangers have shown interest in Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri. Reports suggest positive talks between the clubs, with Rangers ideally wanting a loan deal with an option to buy, while United prefers a permanent transfer for around £7 million. Hannibal, who had a tough 2023/24 season, has previously shown promise at United’s academy and on loan at Birmingham, where he was praised by manager John Eustace.
Hannibal’s stats in the Championship—ranking highly in assists, expected assisted goals, shot-creating actions, key passes, and crosses—highlight his creative potential. At 21, Hannibal offers the potential for further development, unlike Lawrence. Signing Hannibal would provide more creativity in the number ten role and offer a long-term solution for Rangers.