Rangers’ midfield gamble: Ferguson swap looms as Bologna eye Barron

Rangers are weighing a player-plus-cash deal to sign Lewis Ferguson as Bologna pursue Connor Barron, according to a recent report.

The Serie A side’s renewed interest in the 23-year-old Scotland international could reshape Rangers’ midfield plans ahead of the new season. Barron, who joined Ibrox on a Bosman in summer 2024, has made 83 appearances over two seasons and is expected to feature prominently in McInnes’s 4-4-2 system.

Barron progressed through Kintore United and Aberdeen’s academy before loans to Brechin City and Kelty Hearts. He made his senior debut at Pittodrie in January 2022, shortly after McInnes left Aberdeen. His deep-lying role and versatility as a ‘number 8’ make him a key asset for Rangers.

Lewis Ferguson has flourished since joining Bologna from Aberdeen in July 2022, making 135 appearances for the Rossoblu across competitions. The 23-year-old’s hybrid central and attacking midfield profile mirrors Nicolas Raskin’s contributions, whose departure looms after his World Cup display for Belgium.

A potential swap involving Barron and Ferguson would address Rangers’ midfield needs, with Vanja Dragojević eyed as a replacement if both leave. The Gers have already signed Tochi Chukwuani in January and retained Bailey Rice on a new contract, though Rice has been loaned to Kilmarnock for gametime. Mohamed Diomande adds further depth and physicality in midfield.

Rangers aim to retain Barron and sign Ferguson simultaneously, but a swap deal remains a realistic option. The club’s midfield reshuffle could hinge on resolving Barron’s future and finalising Ferguson’s transfer before the transfer window closes.