Forgotten Rangers star set for deja vu transfer exit talks as club ‘re-ignite’ interest despite failed attempt
Defender looked set for a summer move but talks fell through at the 11th hour
Forgotten Rangers man John Souttar could reportedly be on the move in January as Aris Thessaloniki ‘re-ignite’ interest in the defender.
The Greek Super League outfit were close to signing the 30-year old in the summer and even agreed a three-year deal. However, Souttar was unable to reach an agreement with Rangers about the terms of his exit and stayed at the club. Since then, he hasn’t registered a single minute for the Ibrox side under manager Derek McInnes, who claimed during the summer transfer speculation that he was told Souttar’s future would be ‘better served elsewhere’.
Since arriving from Hearts in January 2022, Souttar has appeared 132 times for the Light Blues - and was once a Scotland regular while performing at a high level in Govan. However, after losing his place in the national side, as well as at club level now, the defender may be offered a second chance of an Ibrox escape route.
Aris ‘re-ignite’ interest in Souttar
The Daily Record claim that the Greek side are considering ‘re-ignite’ their interest in Souttar for the upcoming transfer window, which will commence on January 2. Further local reports claim Aris are still ‘keen’ on the former Dundee United and Hearts man.
They currently sit fifth in the Greek top tier and have European places firmly in their sights. Souttar has been identified as a potential replacement for veteran Brazilian defender Fabiano, whose five year stint at the club is set to end in the summer upon the expiration of his contract.
What has McInnes said about the future of Souttar?
Following a 1-0 Rangers victory over St Mirren in September, the manager explained that a transfer out of Rangers for Souttar would be beneficial to all parties, before his proposed Aris move fell through. McInnes said: “I think he still can (play a part for us) but John has been told that his long-term future would be best served elsewhere.
“He still has good opportunities to move. There are a few windows still open in Europe and there are a few things looking possible for John. I don’t want to speculate too much but I think there are one or two things he’s quite keen on getting a bit of traction.”
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