Rangers transfer collapses at the last minute despite claims deal would be sealed by morning

Paraag Marathe is understood to have made Leeds United striker Joel Piroe an option for Rangers during the January transfer window, but a move to Ibrox now appears unlikely.

Reports had suggested Rangers were exploring a loan deal for the 26-year-old as negotiations for Hansa Rostock forward Ryan Naderi continued to stall.

Piroe has found opportunities limited in the Premier League this season, a sharp contrast to last term when he finished as the Championship’s top scorer. Given the shared links through 49ers Enterprises, a deal initially seemed plausible.

However, Dutch journalist Joost Blaauwhof has indicated that Piroe does not view Rangers as a destination if he departs Elland Road before the deadline, effectively ruling out a switch to Glasgow at this stage. That development leaves Rangers needing to turn their attention elsewhere as they search for attacking reinforcements.

With Danilo expected to head out on loan, options up front could become thin, increasing the urgency around their striker pursuit.

Naderi remains a preferred target, but Hansa Rostock’s reluctance to sanction a mid-season exit continues to complicate discussions.

As the window nears its close, the situation remains fluid, and Rangers may yet be forced into alternative solutions if primary targets remain out of reach.