Scotland midfielder Lewis Ferguson has been strongly linked with a move to Rangers, and senior Record Sport writer Scott McDermott believes the signing could be a title-winning move for the Ibrox club.
Ferguson on McInnes' radar
Ferguson, currently captain of Bologna, is reportedly a target for new Rangers manager Derek McInnes. Despite his uncle Barry Ferguson's reluctance to discuss the potential transfer publicly, McDermott argues that Rangers must pursue the deal.
"If the club's hierarchy and new gaffer Derek McInnes can lure the Bologna captain back to Glasgow this summer - it could be the difference-maker in Rangers winning the title," McDermott wrote. "That's how big a deal it would be."
Potential transfer complications
Several factors could influence a deal. Bologna are interested in Rangers midfielder Connor Barron, which could be part of negotiations. Additionally, Rangers may sell Nico Raskin and Thelo Aasgaard after their World Cup performances, freeing up funds. McDermott suggests a £10 million fee might be required.
Ferguson's qualities
Ferguson returned from the World Cup as Scotland's standout player, enhancing his reputation. "He was the national team's best player at the tournament," McDermott noted, highlighting his tenacity, discipline, and ability to dictate tempo.
Despite an indifferent season after an ACL injury, McDermott argues that Ferguson's leadership and character are invaluable. "It's about leadership, personality, character. It's about signing a guy who will walk out at Ibrox with his head up, chest puffed out, saying: 'Give me the ball'," he wrote.
Understanding Rangers' demands
McDermott compares Ferguson to Celtic's Callum McGregor and Scott Brown, players who thrive under pressure. "Rangers haven't had anyone with that kind of influence on the pitch since a certain former skipper's second spell at Ibrox," he added.
Ferguson, a boyhood Rangers fan raised on stories of success through his father Derek and uncle Barry, understands the club's expectations. "His family are part of the fabric at Rangers. And whether you like it or not, for McInnes, who has been charged with the task of making them the best team in the country again - you can't buy those type of qualities," McDermott wrote.
Captaincy and title ambitions
McDermott suggests the captain's armband could be a clincher. Ferguson led Bologna to their historic Coppa Italia title in 2025 against AC Milan. At 26, he is approaching his peak, as his World Cup performances indicated.
"Signing Ferguson could be the key to their title bid, as they attempt to stop Celtic winning six-in-a-row," McDermott concluded. "Off the pitch, he carries himself the way a Rangers player should. And on it, he would give them something they've been missing for years. A confidence, an arrogance, a resilience - and an appreciation of what's required to make them successful again."
