Rangers have made their first move in the summer transfer window, securing Bournemouth right-back Max Aarons on a season-long loan. The 25-year-old, who completed his medical in Glasgow, becomes the inaugural signing of the Russell Martin era, with the former Southampton boss tasked with challenging Celtic’s dominance after a trophyless 2024-25 campaign. Aarons’ arrival, announced via Rangers’ official X account, has sparked unanimous excitement among fans, though many are calling for further reinforcements to strengthen the squad ahead of the Scottish Premiership and a Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos on July 22, 2025.
Max Aarons brings a wealth of experience to Ibrox. Aarons’ versatility—he can play right-back or left-back—and his high rankings for dribbles, recoveries, and tackle success make him a dynamic addition to Martin’s high-pressing, possession-based system.
Manager Russell Martin, who overlapped with Aarons at Norwich, praised the signing, stating, “Max is a wonderfully talented player who is hungry to develop, improve and help deliver success for his side.” Aarons himself expressed enthusiasm, telling Sky Sports, “I’ve got a lot of experience in different leagues and I have played a lot of games. I think I can bring that experience, a new energy, and I think Rangers fans can be excited.” He will compete with captain James Tavernier for the right-back spot, especially with Dujon Sterling sidelined by injury, though Tavernier’s superior chance creation contrasts with Aarons’ stronger tackling and final-third recoveries.
Rangers fans have greeted Aarons’ arrival with enthusiasm. Posts on X captured the mood, with @RangersFC’s announcement prompting comments like “More signings” and “Another at 5pm?”. However, the Ibrox faithful, buoyed by the 49ers Enterprises takeover, are demanding further additions to challenge Celtic, who secured £43m in prize money and are targeting players like Fulham’s Callum Osmand. An X post from @GersFan88 on June 25, 2025, stated, “Aarons is a great start, but we need strikers and centre-backs to catch Celtic”. Pundit Kris Boyd, on Sky Sports, echoed this, suggesting Rangers need “three or four quality signings” to compete.
