Rangers receive striker boost as loan bid prompts drastic action

Tom Weber

• 31 Jan 2026 10:00 CST
• 3 min read

News

Rangers appear to be closing in on a loan deal for Southampton forward Cameron Archer.

On Friday, news broke that the Ibrox giants had begun exploring a move for the 24-year-old due to Hansa Rostock blocking the transfer of Ryan Naderi. Rangers had made several "mega offers" for the German, but the promotion-chasing third-tier club are reluctant to sell.

Archer has emerged as a viable alternative for Danny Rohl, who is keen to sign another striker despite turning down a sizeable bid for Youssef Chermiti. The former Aston Villa star is keen to leave Southampton this month.

The Walsall-born attacker has made no secret of the fact that he has been unhappy with his playing time at St. Mary's for the best part of a year. He was signed for €17.6 million in 2024, but has not managed to nail down a starting spot.

This term, Archer has made 23 appearances, but the majority have come off the bench. He has played fewer than 900 minutes, scoring four goals and providing one assist.

Archer left out of Saints squad

It has been claimed that Rangers are looking to loan Archer in the final days of the window, and it seems that progress regarding a move is being made. Archer was omitted from Southampton's squad to face Stoke City on Saturday.

This is good news for the Gers, but Archer will surely also have other suitors. Leeds previously looked into a deal for the versatile 24-year-old, who can also play out wide.

According to the Daily Record, Southampton have informed Rangers that they would have to cover a large chunk of Archer's wages if they wish to sign him. The Saints want to free up some of their wage bill and are open to offers for the attacker.

Signing Archer would mean that Rangers have given up on Naderi, although they could revisit a deal in the summer, when Rostock will be more receptive to bids for their star striker.

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