Rangers appear to be undergoing a significant squad overhaul during the January transfer window, with Welsh international Rabbi Matondo leading the exodus and three other players reportedly set to follow. According to a report from The Daily Record (22 January), Philippe Clement is orchestrating a mass cull to reshape the Ibrox squad as he looks to create both financial flexibility and room for new signings.
Matondo Set for Championship Move
Rabbi Matondo is already on the verge of completing a move to Coventry City, now managed by Frank Lampard. The 23-year-old winger has fallen down the pecking order under Clement and has been deemed surplus to requirements. Reports indicate that Matondo is in England finalizing a loan-to-buy deal with the Championship club.
The Welsh international, who joined Rangers in 2022 from Schalke, has struggled to cement his place in the squad. Despite showing flashes of potential, including two goals and two assists in the ongoing 2024–25 campaign, Matondo’s lack of consistency appears to have sealed his fate. Coventry City sees him as a valuable addition, and the loan-to-buy structure provides flexibility for both clubs.
Other Players Facing Uncertain Futures
While Matondo’s exit looks imminent, three other Rangers players are also reportedly on the chopping block.
Kieran Dowell: The midfielder, who joined Rangers last summer from Norwich City, has struggled for game time and is now linked with a potential move away.
Cyriel Dessers: The Nigerian striker has been a polarizing figure among fans, with 11 of the quartet’s combined 15 Scottish Premiership starts coming from him. Despite his efforts, Dessers has not managed to live up to expectations since his arrival.
Adam Devine: The young full-back, once seen as a promising talent, has found opportunities limited under the current managerial regime. Devine is said to be seeking regular first-team football, which may necessitate a move away from Ibrox.
Why the Changes?
The decision to part ways with these players is part of Clement’s broader strategy to rejuvenate the Rangers squad. With the team aiming to close the gap on Celtic domestically and make an impact in Europe, freeing up squad space and wages is a critical step.
Matondo and the other three players have managed just 15 Scottish Premiership starts between them this season, highlighting their limited roles in Clement’s plans. By offloading these underutilized assets, Rangers hope to reinvest in areas where reinforcement is desperately needed.
Manager’s Vision
Philippe Clement, who took the reins at Ibrox in late 2023, is determined to imprint his own style and philosophy on the team. The January transfer window offers a crucial opportunity for the Belgian manager to fine-tune his squad and bring in players who align with his tactical vision.
This shake-up comes at a time when Rangers are under pressure to deliver results, both in the Scottish Premiership and on the European stage. Clement’s approach signals a no-nonsense attitude, making it clear that players who fail to meet his expectations will be moved on.
What’s Next for Rangers?
As the January window progresses, Rangers fans can expect more movement in and out of the club. While Matondo’s exit is nearly confirmed, the futures of Dowell, Dessers, and Devine remain uncertain. Clement is reportedly targeting reinforcements in key areas, with rumors suggesting the club is eyeing signings to boost their attacking and defensive depth.
The next fortnight promises to be a busy period for Rangers as they navigate what could be a transformative transfer window. Fans will be eager to see how these changes impact the team’s performance in the latter half of the season.
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