Rangers have a big decision coming on one of their most interesting summer additions, and it traces back to a phone call from Derek McInnes.
James Penrice arrived at Ibrox in August after McInnes made direct contact. The former Hearts left-back joined from AEK Athens on loan, with an option to buy him for about £1.75 million next summer. Celtic had shown the most interest at one stage, reportedly cooling before Rangers moved in during the final 48 hours. It was a quick piece of business, and it gave McInnes a answer at left-back, a position the press had flagged as a problem area. (journalist) (scotsman)
Penrice’s pedigree is no mystery. He shone during the 2024/25 campaign at Hearts before leaving for Greece last summer. That form is why McInnes wanted him, and why this loan spell carries so much weight. For Rangers, the structure of the deal is its main attraction. A loan with a fixed buy option lets the club test a player in the heat of a title race, in Glasgow, in front of Ibrox, before committing real money. (scotsman)
