Rangers Football Club are reportedly considering a bold move to bring Josh Windass back to Ibrox.
The 31-year-old forward is said to be attracting interest from multiple clubs, including the Scottish giants, as the Owls grapple with financial difficulties. This potential reunion could see Windass return to the club where he made his mark between 2016 and 2018, offering both experience and unfinished business at Ibrox.
A Proven Performer at Sheffield Wednesday
Josh Windass has been a standout figure for Sheffield Wednesday since joining the club in 2020, initially on loan from Wigan Athletic before securing a permanent move for a reported £500,000. Last season, the attacking midfielder enjoyed his most prolific campaign at the Championship level, scoring 13 goals and providing six assists in 47 appearances.
His versatility to operate across the forward line, combined with his knack for delivering in crucial moments—most notably the dramatic 123rd-minute winner in the 2023 League One play-off final against Barnsley—has made him a fan favourite at Hillsborough. Windass’ 53 goals in 182 appearances for Wednesday also mark him as the club’s top goalscorer this century.
LATE WINNER SENDS SHEFF WED TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/zOMJJ95z9S
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) May 29, 2023
However, Sheffield Wednesday’s ongoing financial crisis has cast uncertainty over Windass’ future. The club’s struggles with wage payments and a three-window transfer ban until January 2027 have prompted several players, including Windass, to reportedly seek exits. With his contract entering its final year—following a one-year extension triggered by the club this summer—Wednesday may be forced to cash in on their star asset to alleviate financial pressures.
Rangers’ Interest: A Return to Familiar Ground
Rangers’ interest in Windass comes as no surprise, given his history with the club. Signed from Accrington Stanley in 2016 under manager Mark Warburton, Windass spent two years at Ibrox, scoring 19 goals in 73 appearances. While his time in Glasgow showed flashes of brilliance, it was also marked by inconsistency, leaving some supporters with mixed feelings about his departure to Wigan in 2018.
The Star report that Rangers are closely monitoring Windass’ situation. The club is also nearing a deal to sign Wednesday’s 21-year-old winger Djeidi Gassama, hinting at a possible double swoop on the financially troubled Championship side. Under manager Russell Martin, Rangers are looking to bolster their attacking options, and Windass’ experience, versatility, and proven goal-scoring ability make him an attractive squad option for both domestic and European challenges.
Competition for Windass’ Signature
Rangers face stiff competition for Windass, with several clubs reportedly in the race. Championship sides Derby County, Norwich City, and Coventry City are among those monitoring the situation, while League One newcomers Wrexham, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have held longstanding interest in the forward. Additionally, an unnamed German club has been linked, and earlier this year, Brazilian side Santos and Spanish giants Valencia were rumored to have shown interest. The prospect of Windass terminating his contract due to unpaid wages could even allow suitors to sign him on a free transfer, making him an even more appealing target.
