Ryan Alebiosu: Key reason Rangers are ready to splash ‘£5 million’ on Blackburn star

Super Eagles and Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has emerged as a top target for Scottish giants Rangers ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian defender enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the English Championship side during the recently concluded season and was one of the few bright sparks in a very disappointing campaign, as Blackburn narrowly avoided relegation.

Alebiosu only joined the Rovers last summer and quickly established himself as a key member of the squad, making 40 appearances across all competitions.

The 24-year-old’s impressive performances also impressed Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who included him in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped the team secure a bronze medal.

However, Rangers’ disappointing season has prompted the club to strengthen its squad and the Nigerian defender could become their latest addition.

Why Rangers are keen on signing Ryan Alebiosu

According to Sports Boom via GIVEMESPORT, Scottish Premiership side Rangers have identified Ryan Alebiosu as one of their top transfer targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Light Blues endured a difficult campaign last season, ending the season without a major trophy and falling behind Celtic and Hearts in the title race. As a result, they have already begun their transfer business early and have secured the signing of Scotland international Lawrence Shankland, who is expected to join from Hearts once the transfer window officially opens on June 15.

One area Rangers must strengthen is the right-back position. Club captain James Tavernier is expected to leave after 11 years of service, while Max Aarons, who spent last season on loan at Ibrox, will also return to his parent club Bournemouth.

These departures would leave them short of options and Alebiosu has emerged as an obvious candidate replacement. The Nigerian defender appears to be a perfect fit for Rangers’ tactical setup under head coach Danny Rohl. His style of play is similar to that of Tavernier and he can combine defensive solidity with the ability to contribute in attack. 

The Super Eagles defender also has previous experience in Scottish football and would require little time to adapt. He spent the second half of the 2024-25 season on loan at St Mirren, where he gained valuable experience in the Scottish Premiership.

Meanwhile, the presence of fellow Nigerian defender Emmanuel Fernandez at Rangers could also ease his transition into the squad. Rangers are also interested in young Nigerian defender Akpe Victory and if they succeed in signing him, the club could potentially have three Nigerians in their backline ahead of next season.

However, the Light Blues face competition for Alebiosu’s signature. Italian side Genoa are long-term admirers of the defender, while West Ham United are also monitoring his situation as they look to strengthen their squad following relegation from the Premier League last season.

Rangers are unlikely to have any issues coming to an agreement on personal terms, but they must still agree a transfer fee with Blackburn Rovers, who have reportedly set an asking price of around £5 million. 

Should an agreement be reached, Alebiosu could be on his way to Ibrox in the coming weeks.