Rangers must react to Dessers injury blow by signing “complete” £7m star

Rangers Face Club Brugge in Champions League Play-Offs Amid Dessers Injury Concern

Glasgow Rangers have secured a Champions League qualifying play-off clash against Club Brugge, putting them one step away from the competition’s league phase. The Scottish side advanced after a 4-2 aggregate victory over Viktoria Plzeň, with their dominant 3-0 first-leg win at Ibrox proving decisive. Despite a 2-1 defeat in the return leg in Czechia, manager Russell Martin will be pleased to have navigated two qualifying rounds successfully.

However, the triumph was marred by an injury setback for star striker Cyriel Dessers, who limped off with what Martin described as a “nasty” ankle injury. The severity of the issue remains unclear pending further medical assessment, but the Nigerian forward could face an extended spell on the sidelines—a major blow for Rangers.

Why Rangers Must Replace Dessers

With Dessers potentially out long-term and fellow striker Hamza Igamane also injured, Danilo stands as the only fit senior centre-forward in the squad. Yet the Brazilian’s own injury record—missing 53 games over the past two seasons (per Transfermarkt)—makes him an unreliable sole option.

Dessers, though not always clinical, delivered 18 Premiership goals last season. His absence would leave a significant void, forcing Rangers to enter the transfer market for reinforcements.

Bojan Miovski: The Ideal Replacement?

One potential solution could be former Aberdeen striker Bojan Miovski, now at Girona. Reports last month linked Rangers with a move for the North Macedonian, who scored 32 Premiership goals across two seasons with the Dons.

Recent updates suggest Girona may be open to selling Miovski, paving the way for a potential return to Scotland. His proven track record in the league—outperforming expected goals (xG) in 2022/23 and maintaining strong shot quality—makes him a reliable option. Described as a “complete number 9,” he could seamlessly fill the gap left by Dessers.

Time for Rangers to Act

With Danilo’s fitness concerns and Dessers’ injury casting doubt over his availability, Rangers must act swiftly in the transfer market. Miovski represents a proven, high-calibre striker who could hit the ground running—exactly what Martin’s side needs to maintain their attacking threat.

The board must now back the manager by securing a deal before the window closes, ensuring Rangers remain competitive domestically and in Europe.