Rangers line up Cameron Archer agreement as backup option emerges for deadline day

Rangers have agreed a loan deal with Southampton for Cameron Archer, though Danny Rohl is also putting a fallback plan in place.

The striker has become a key target in the closing days of the winter transfer window, with Rohl eager to bring in a centre-forward before Monday’s deadline. Strengthening that position has been a priority for the Gers throughout January, but they have faced repeated setbacks in their attempts to secure a signing.

Several forwards have been linked with a move to Ibrox, and Rohl remains determined to get a deal completed before the window closes. While progress has been made, the Rangers boss is not relying on just one option.

The club already have an agreement in place to sign Hansa Rostock forward Rayan Naderi in the summer, with the 22-year-old set to stay in Germany’s third tier for the rest of the 2025–26 season. However, that does little to solve the immediate need for a striker, prompting Rangers to pursue Archer.

According to reports on Monday, Rangers have a loan arrangement ready for the Southampton forward. The move, though, hinges on Southampton bringing in a replacement for Adam Armstrong, who is heading to Wolves. If the Saints fail to secure cover, Archer may not be allowed to leave, which would force Rangers to explore alternatives.

In that scenario, Rangers could attempt a late push to bring Naderi in immediately rather than waiting until the summer, making him their emergency option.

Archer has found opportunities limited at Southampton this season, but his record in the Championship suggests he could be a major asset. The 24-year-old scored 11 goals and registered six assists in 22 league appearances for Middlesbrough in 2022–23, having previously netted seven times in 20 matches for Preston.

While he has struggled to establish himself at Premier League level, Archer is still viewed as a natural finisher who could make a significant impact in Scotland. If Rangers manage to complete the deal, he could prove to be a crucial addition in the Premiership title race.