Derek McInnes hints at more Rangers arrivals and departures

Rangers manager Derek McInnes has admitted the club may need to sell players before pushing ahead with more signings as he continues his squad rebuild at Ibrox.

The Light Blues have already completed six signings this summer, with former Hearts midfielder Cameron Devlin the latest arrival. However, McInnes believes further reinforcements are needed if Rangers are to challenge for major honours next season.

Despite wanting to strengthen the squad, the Rangers boss acknowledged that trimming the current group is now a priority. With 28 senior players on the books, including 10 central midfielders, departures are expected before more new faces arrive.

John Souttar and Danilo have both been given permission to miss the club’s training camp in Spain as they explore potential moves away from Ibrox, while uncertainty also remains over the future of Belgian midfielder Nico Raskin.

As a result, reported targets such as Tromso’s Jens Hjerto-Dahl, Partizan Belgrade youngster Vanja Dragojevic and Scotland international Lewis Ferguson may have to wait until Rangers create space in the squad.

Speaking about his transfer plans, McInnes said he expects both arrivals and departures before the window closes.

“I think we’d probably look to get a few moving on,” he said.

“That’s normal when a new manager comes in, especially after a disappointing season. Rangers didn’t achieve what was expected, so improvements are needed.

“We’re working closely with the recruitment team and we’re all in agreement about the areas that need strengthening.

“There’s still plenty of work to do. We’ve made progress, but we’re not finished yet. We want to be as prepared as possible for the opening game against Dundee United, although every club will still be working on their squads by then.

“I think the squad we have now will probably look a little different by the time the transfer window closes.”

McInnes also welcomed the backing he has received from the Rangers board, with chairman Andrew Cavenagh reportedly prepared to invest again after significant spending last season.

“It’s encouraging to have that level of support,” McInnes added.

“You always have to work within your budget, whether that’s transfer fees or wages, but the board has made it clear they want the strongest squad possible.

“They’ve backed us, although we still have to spend responsibly.”

The Rangers boss also addressed the growing number of transfer rumours linking the club with players across Europe.

“There are some names being mentioned that are genuinely of interest and others that aren’t,” he said.

“A few of the players we’ve been linked with are close to the truth, while others are simply speculation. A lot of those discussions are ongoing, so we’ll see how things develop.”