Opinion: Rangers player previously linked with an exit now appears likely to remain at the club after recent remarks.

Cyriel Dessers’ Future at Rangers Uncertain Amid Transfer Interest

Cyriel Dessers could see his position at Rangers impacted during the current transfer window, as AEK Athens have expressed interest in signing the Nigerian striker. However, negotiations have stalled, with the Greek side struggling to meet Rangers’ financial demands.

The 30-year-old forward has been the subject of consistent exit rumors in recent weeks, and this window presents Rangers with a chance to offload him for a fee. Although many fans have grown frustrated with his inconsistency and might not mind seeing him go, manager Russell Martin might have other ideas.

Dessers Impresses in Draw Against Motherwell

In Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Motherwell, Dessers was one of the few bright spots for the Gers. The team dropped points at Fir Park in their Scottish Premiership opener on August 2, a result that clearly disappointed Martin.

Following the match, the Rangers boss confirmed that the club had received a formal offer for Dessers — the only one so far — but hinted that he may resist selling the forward based on his efforts on the pitch.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Martin said:

“Dessers is the only one we’ve actually had a bid for, and he comes on and runs so hard. Some of the others need to look at him and take that as an example.
If players don’t want to buy into what it means to play for this club, they’ll be left behind.”

Dessers joined Rangers in 2023 from Cremonese for £4.5 million and went on to score 29 goals across all competitionslast season. Despite his ups and downs, he may still have an important role to play at Ibrox.

Changes Needed After Fir Park Slip-Up

Martin may need to reassess his attacking options moving forward. Danilo, who started the match against Motherwell, failed to impress and was eventually subbed off for Dessers, who made a stronger case for a starting role.

Elsewhere, Max Aarons showed signs of settling in at left-back, while Jack Butland and the defense couldn’t prevent Motherwell from finding the net despite solid individual efforts.

Kieran Dowell, meanwhile, delivered another underwhelming performance, though it appears Martin still has faith in him.

Although Rangers recently proved their mettle by defeating Panathinaikos in the Champions League qualifiers, their domestic inconsistency remains a concern — something Martin must address if the team hopes to contend for silverware this season.