Joel Piroe: Rangers’ Potential January Transformation as Celtic Interest Rebuffed

Joel Piroe: Rangers’ Potential January Transformation as Celtic Interest Rebuffed

Leeds United forward Joel Piroe could now complete a dramatic January switch to Rangers, reigniting a long-standing interest from Ibrox. The Dutch striker was previously linked to Rangers during his Swansea City days, but instead moved to Elland Road, where he remained in the English Championship.

The connection dates back to 2023, when then-manager Michael Beale eyed a move for Piroe before his departure from Rangers. Three years later, a transfer is back on the cards as current boss Danny Rohl looks to strengthen his squad in the final weeks of the window. The possibility of signing Piroe has gained momentum, with Leeds’ owners, the 49ers, potentially positioned to make a pointed statement to Celtic this winter.

This comes after Leeds United firmly turned away interest from Celtic for the striker. Brendan Rodgers’ side, like Rangers, are actively seeking attacking reinforcements and had shown concrete interest in the former Swansea player. However, their efforts to bring him to Parkhead have failed. Leeds reportedly rejected Celtic’s approach due to the club’s ties with Rangers through the 49ers ownership group and their network of club investments. Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph added that Leeds were “surprised” to receive Celtic’s approach in recent weeks.

It has been widely suggested that these ownership connections have completely stalled any deal with Celtic, making it a “non-starter” this winter. This rejection deals a significant blow to Celtic’s seasonal prospects, a situation compounded if Piroe were to instead make a high-profile move to their arch-rivals at Ibrox.

For Rangers, signing Piroe could be transformative in January. The Glasgow club has been in desperate need of a reliable, goal-guaranteeing striker all season. Following the departure of Cyril Dessers—a regular scorer despite his frustrating misses—Piroe could be the ideal solution. He arrives with pedigree, having won the Championship Golden Boot and secured promotion with Leeds last season.

The 49ers’ control of Leeds presents a clear opportunity to facilitate the Dutchman’s move to Govan, a move that would simultaneously benefit Rohl’s squad and spite Celtic. While it remains unclear how willing the player himself is to make the move, if a deal can be struck, it would represent a perfect scenario for the Gers, potentially reshaping their attacking fortunes for the season’s climax.