Rangers are set to complete their second summer signing as Derek McInnes agrees on a long-term deal for an international defender.

Rangers are on the verge of completing the first signing of the Derek McInnes era after reaching an agreement to bring former academy graduate Ross McCrorie back to Ibrox on a long-term contract from Bristol City.

The Glasgow club, who officially unveiled McInnes as their new manager earlier this week, have reportedly wrapped up negotiations for the return of the versatile Scotland international. McCrorie is expected to sign a three-year deal, marking a homecoming almost six years after leaving Rangers in pursuit of regular first-team football.

Reports indicate that Rangers have beaten off competition from a number of English clubs to secure the defender’s signature. The transfer fee is believed to be in the region of £900,000, although various performance-related add-ons could see the overall value of the deal rise in the future.

McCrorie will pen a three year deal to return to Rangers this summer

For McCrorie, the move represents a return to familiar surroundings and an opportunity to re-establish himself at the club where his professional career began. Alongside his brother Robby, he progressed through Rangers’ youth ranks and eventually made more than 50 appearances for the first team before moving to Aberdeen in 2020.

His departure at the time was driven by a desire for consistent game time, something he successfully achieved during a productive spell at Pittodrie. Over three seasons with Aberdeen, McCrorie developed into one of the Scottish Premiership’s most dependable performers, earning praise for his adaptability and work ethic.

Those displays eventually attracted interest from south of the border, leading to a move to Bristol City in the English Championship. Since arriving at Ashton Gate, McCrorie has continued to impress, establishing himself as a key figure within the squad and enhancing his reputation as a reliable and versatile defender.

His performances in England earned him recognition at international level, resulting in a Scotland call-up ahead of the European Championship campaign two years ago. The 28-year-old’s steady development has made him one of the most respected Scottish defenders currently playing outside the Premiership.

The transfer will make McCrorie Rangers’ second addition of the summer transfer window following the arrival of former Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland. The club is eager to strengthen significantly after a disappointing campaign that saw them finish third in the league under former manager Danny Rohl.

McCrorie’s versatility is viewed as a major asset by the Rangers recruitment team. While he is capable of operating in central defence, midfield, or as part of a back three, he has primarily excelled at right-back in recent seasons and is expected to provide immediate competition in that position.

McCrorie during his first stint at Rangers

His experience, leadership qualities, and understanding of the demands associated with playing for Rangers are also seen as important factors behind the move. Having already experienced the pressure and expectations that come with representing the club, he should require little time to adapt upon his return.

The signing also signals a new direction under McInnes and the club’s revamped football structure. Following criticism of previous recruitment strategies, Rangers have placed significant emphasis on improving decision-making behind the scenes.

Technical director Dan Purdy and performance director Stig Inge Bjornebye are now working closely alongside chairman Andrew Cavenagh, chief executive Jim Gillespie, and McInnes to identify players capable of helping Rangers challenge for major honours once again.

The objective is clear: construct a squad strong enough to compete with Celtic and reclaim the Scottish Premiership title. After falling short in recent seasons, Rangers are determined to avoid repeating past mistakes in the transfer market.

McInnes has already outlined the approach he intends to take regarding recruitment, stressing the importance of targeting realistic and attainable signings rather than pursuing players beyond the club’s financial reach.

Speaking about transfer plans this summer, the Rangers manager explained that constant communication between the coaching staff and recruitment department would be central to their strategy.

He highlighted the need to identify priority positions and then focus on players who are both affordable and accessible. According to McInnes, there is little value in spending time chasing unrealistic targets when those resources can instead be devoted to securing players who genuinely fit the club’s needs.

The new manager emphasised that Rangers quickly narrow their focus to a shortlist of achievable options, ensuring that negotiations can progress efficiently and productively.

McCrorie appears to fit that profile perfectly. He arrives with proven experience, familiarity with Scottish football, international pedigree, and a strong understanding of the expectations that come with wearing the Rangers jersey.

Supporters will also be encouraged by the fact that the defender is entering what many consider the prime years of his career. At 28, he combines valuable experience with the physical attributes required to perform consistently at a high level.

His return could also provide Rangers with greater flexibility across several positions throughout the campaign, particularly during periods affected by injuries, suspensions, or fixture congestion.

For McCrorie personally, the transfer offers an opportunity to complete unfinished business at the club where his football journey began. Having matured considerably since his departure, he returns as a more complete player with a wealth of experience gained in both Scotland and England.

The move also represents an early statement of intent from McInnes as he begins rebuilding the squad ahead of the new season. Bringing back a player who understands the club’s culture while possessing the quality to strengthen the starting lineup aligns with the manager’s desire to create a more resilient and competitive team.

While Rangers supporters will undoubtedly be excited by the prospect of further additions in the weeks ahead, the imminent arrival of Ross McCrorie provides a strong indication of the type of recruitment strategy the club intends to follow under its new leadership.

As pre-season preparations gather pace, all signs suggest that McCrorie’s return to Ibrox will soon be officially confirmed, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both the player and the club under Derek McInnes.