‘i’ve heard good things about him’ – ibrox expert impressed by rangers’ latest appointment

Rangers’ recruitment strategy could soon take on a distinctly Scandinavian flavour following the club’s latest behind-the-scenes appointment, according to a respected football executive.

Former Aberdeen, Aston Villa and Everton chief executive Keith Wyness has spoken positively about Rangers’ decision to bring in Stig Inge Bjornebye as a football consultant, suggesting the move could open up valuable new transfer opportunities ahead of the January window. Wyness shared his views in an exclusive interview with Football Insider after it was confirmed that Bjornebye will join the Ibrox club on an initial six-month consultancy basis.

The appointment comes at a time of significant upheaval at Rangers. Both chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell have been dismissed, leaving manager Danny Rohl with increased influence over recruitment and squad planning during a crucial period of the season. With January approaching, Rohl is expected to play a central role in identifying and securing reinforcements, particularly after a summer transfer window that failed to deliver the desired results under former boss Russell Martin.

Wyness believes Bjornebye’s arrival is a timely and intelligent move, especially given his experience and connections in Scandinavian football. The former Norway international has previously worked with clubs such as Rosenborg and Aarhus, building a strong network across the region. According to Wyness, that expertise could be instrumental in helping Rangers uncover value in markets that are often overlooked by Scottish clubs.

Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness explained that Bjornebye’s short-term role is likely focused squarely on the January window. He suggested the consultant’s main task will be to assist Rohl by identifying potential signings outside the traditional English and southern European markets.

Wyness noted that Scandinavia, in particular, represents a smart area for Rangers to explore. He argued that clubs in the region tend to produce players who are physically robust, tactically disciplined and well-suited to the demands of Scottish football. Crucially, he also pointed out that transfer fees and wage demands are often more reasonable compared to those in England or Spain.

According to Wyness, Scottish football has a long history of successful Scandinavian imports, yet the market has been somewhat neglected in recent years. He believes Rangers could benefit greatly from revisiting that pathway, especially as they look to rebuild their squad in a cost-effective and sustainable way.

Wyness also suggested that recent recruitment missteps could help supporters understand the logic behind this new approach. He referenced Chermiti as an example of a player who has struggled to adapt at Rangers, contrasting that situation with the consistent quality often found among Scandinavian prospects. In his view, fans would be far more receptive to signings from a region that has repeatedly proven its compatibility with the Scottish game.

The former Aberdeen chief also feels that Danny Rohl’s coaching style makes him well suited to working with players from Scandinavian and Germanic football backgrounds. He believes these players tend to respond well to structured systems and tactical clarity, qualities that Rohl values highly. As a result, Wyness expects the partnership between Rohl and Bjornebye to provide a clear recruitment direction and help shape the squad more effectively in the coming months.

Wyness added that he has heard positive feedback about Bjornebye’s work and reputation within football circles, describing him as well connected and knowledgeable. He believes those connections will allow Rangers to move quickly and decisively in the transfer market, potentially securing players before competition from wealthier clubs emerges.

While Bjornebye’s influence may be felt across several positions, midfield appears to be an immediate area of focus for Rangers. The club has been linked with Saint-Etienne midfielder Pierre Ekwah, a player who previously spent time at Sunderland. The 23-year-old was already on Rangers’ radar during the summer, and interest has reportedly been renewed ahead of January.

Ekwah’s situation in France could make him an attainable target. Following Saint-Etienne’s relegation to Ligue 2, the midfielder has refused to feature for the club, increasing the likelihood of a transfer. Rangers could view him as a timely addition, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the future of Nico Raskin.

Raskin, 24, has been linked with a potential move away from Ibrox, with Premier League clubs believed to be monitoring his situation. Should he depart, Rangers would need a reliable replacement capable of operating at a similar level, and Ekwah is seen as a strong candidate to fill that role.

As Rangers prepare for a pivotal January window, the appointment of Bjornebye signals a possible shift in strategy, with greater emphasis on smart recruitment and untapped markets. If Wyness’ assessment proves accurate, supporters could soon see a new wave of Scandinavian talent arriving at Ibrox, offering both value for money and long-term potential as the club looks to rebuild and compete on multiple fronts.