Rangers are in advanced negotiations to sign Croatian World Cup goalkeeper Ivor Pandur for a fee of approximately £6 million, a move that is expected to pave the way for Jack Butland to join Hull City. The deal would see Butland, one of Rangers' highest earners, move in the opposite direction after being given permission to hold talks with the Championship side.
Pandur's Rise and Rangers' Interest
Pandur, 26, has been a standout performer for Hull City, helping the club secure promotion back to the Premier League. His performances have attracted attention from Rangers, who see him as a long-term solution in goal. The Croatian international came through the ranks at Rijeka before moving to Hellas Verona and then Fortuna Sittard. Hull signed him for £1.5 million two years ago.
Hull City must sell some of their top assets to comply with Profit and Sustainability rules, opening the door for Rangers to make their move. The £6 million fee would represent a significant profit for the Tigers on their initial investment.
Butland's Potential Departure
Jack Butland, 33, has been a key figure for Rangers since joining from Crystal Palace in 2023. However, the English goalkeeper is keen for another opportunity in the Premier League, and Hull City's interest provides a potential route back to English football's top tier. Butland's departure would free up significant wages at Ibrox, allowing manager Derek McInnes to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Rangers have already bolstered their squad this summer, signing Ben Godfrey on loan from Atalanta. The addition of Pandur would further enhance their options, with Liam Kelly currently serving as the back-up goalkeeper.
Alternative Goalkeeping Targets
Should the deal for Pandur fall through, Rangers have identified alternative goalkeeping targets. Sheffield Wednesday's Pierce Charles and Italian Sebastiano Desplanches are also on the club's radar. However, Pandur remains the primary target as Rangers look to secure a long-term successor to Butland.
The transfer window is heating up for Rangers, and the potential double move involving Pandur and Butland could reshape their goalkeeping department for the upcoming season.
